On This Episode
Auggie’s Culinary Journey: Auggie Russo shares his diverse background, from working in culinary arts and film to creating unique pizzas that blend personal history and creativity. He reminisces about his childhood and the family traditions that inspire his culinary creations.
Signature Ingredients: The episode highlights Auggie’s famous sweet-hot peppers, which are a standout feature in his pizzas. He discusses how he incorporates them creatively and the process of developing new flavors, including using figs and various spices.
Pizza Philosophy: Auggie emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent dough texture and the balance between creativity and tradition in pizza-making. He believes in keeping the dough light and avoiding overly heavy ingredients, reflecting a refined approach to pizzeria cuisine.
The Power of Community: Auggie talks about his experiences at events like Smorgasburg and the significance of community in building his pizza brand. He reflects on the connections made through food and how they impact his approach to cooking and business.
Balancing Art and Commerce: The conversation explores the tension between artistry and commercial viability in the pizza industry. Auggie discusses his philosophy on ethical cooking and the importance of staying true to one’s culinary values while navigating business challenges.
