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FRENCH BREAD

French Bread

French bread, also known as baguette, is a long, thin loaf of crusty bread that originated in France. This iconic bread is known for its crisp outer crust and soft, airy interior. Made using a simple combination of flour, water, salt, and yeast, it is a staple in French cuisine and pairs well with various spreads, cheeses, and dishes. The process of making French bread involves a slow fermentation, which contributes to its unique flavor and texture. The loaves are baked at high temperatures, resulting in the signature golden-brown crust. Ideal for sandwiches, toast, or as an accompaniment to soups and salads, French bread is enjoyed by people all around the world.
#7
IN BREAD
272
CAL / 100G
$0.12
AVG / OZ
french bread
80%
CARBS
4%
FAT
17%
PROTEIN
French Bread FAQ
Cooking with French bread is relatively straightforward, but there are often questions about the best ways to use it or how to enhance its flavor. One common mistake people make is slicing it while it's still hot, which can cause it to crush under pressure. Always let it rest and cool off before slicing. It’s also best served fresh, as it tends to dry out and harden after a couple of days. Getting the most out of French bread depends on how you plan to consume it. For sandwiches or toast, cut it into thicker slices to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. If it's for bruschetta or crostini, thinner slices will provide a more delicate and crisp base. In case the bread turns stale, you can still use it in bread puddings, make breadcrumbs, or even create French toast. A little-known trick is to restore stale French bread by running it under cold water for a few seconds and then baking it in a hot oven for about 15 minutes. The steam generated will refresh the bread, making the inside fluffy again and the crust as crispy as when it was first baked. Another trick, to get neat and consistent slices, is to use a serrated bread knife using a gentle sawing motion without applying too much pressure.
Can you freeze French bread?
How to cut French bread without squashing it?
Why is my French bread too dense?
What's the best way to serve French bread?
Should French bread be heated?
How can I make my French bread crusty?
Why is my French bread not rising?
Can you make garlic bread with French bread?
What pairs well with French bread?
Why is the crust on my French bread too hard?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does french bread expire?
French bread typically lasts for about 1-2 days at room temperature if kept properly. It doesn't contain preservatives, so it tends to spoil faster than other types of bread. If you've sliced your French bread, expect it to go stale even faster, usually within a day. Compared to the printed date on the package, it's always best to consume French bread as soon as possible for the best taste and texture. By putting the bread in a refrigerator, it might actually turn stale faster due to the cold temperature promoting the retrogradation of the starch. However, if you freeze the bread, it can last up to 2-3 months.
How do you tell if french bread is bad?
Check for visible signs of mold, usually green or white spots on the surface of the bread. Another sign can be a sour, off smell - good bread should have a fresh yeasty smell. Keep note of the texture too. If the bread feels overly hard and dry, or conversely, excessively damp or squishy, it may have gone bad. Lastly, if the bread tastes stale, it's likely past its prime.
Tips for storing french bread to extend shelf life
• Store the bread at room temperature in a bread box or in a paper bag for the first day. • After the first day, if you have leftovers, it's best to freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in a plastic bag and remove as much air as possible. • Never store French bread in the refrigerator. It can make it go stale faster. • If freezing, you can refresh the bread by sprinkling a bit of water on it and then heating it in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes.
EXPIRES WITHIN
11 - 29
DAYS
Health Info
Macros
16g
CARBS
0g
FAT
3g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
Contains these allergens
WHEAT
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