Final answer:
The three possible crusted finish options for dishes are a sugar crust, breadcrumb crust, and pastry crust. They are used for adding texture and flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are several options for creating a crusted finish on a variety of dishes. Three common crust options in culinary arts, especially in baking and pastry, are:
- Sugar crust, where sugar is applied to the surface of a pastry, which is then caramelized using a torch or broiler to create a crispy, sweet layer.
- Breadcrumb crust, consisting of a mixture of bread crumbs, herbs, and sometimes grated cheese, which is applied to a dish's surface before baking to provide a savory, textured crust.
- Pastry crust, which involves topping a dish with a layer of pastry dough before baking. The dough becomes a flaky, golden exterior upon cooking, common in pies and tarts.
These crusts can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, extending their versatility in cooking. Examples of their application in sweet dishes include sugar-crusted crème brûlée and pies with a pastry crust, whereas breadcrumb crusts are often found on baked casserole dishes or atop macaroni and cheese.