Exploring Bread: Cultures You Need To Try At Your Local Bakery

30 January 2017
 Categories: , Blog

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Your local bakery has a plethora of delicious breads and pastries just begging to be devoured. If you are used to buying your traditional French breads or fat yeasty rolls but want to try something new, you can explore bread by checking out different cultures. Here are some breads you just have to try the next time you walk into the bakery.

Japanese breads

You may not think of this culture when you think of bread and pastries, but Japanese-style breads are becoming more mainstream in common American cuisine. If you want to really venture outside your comfort zone, try some Anpan, a dessert bread with a dark red bean past filling and a soft pretzel-style breading. Melon pan is a milder option for sweet bread you can choose from if you aren't feeling too adventurous. You can request Japanese-style breads at your local bakery or go to a Japanese bakery for these and other authentic breads to try.

Indian breads

Known for their flatbreads and crepe-style baked goods, Indian breads are a must-have to try when preparing meals at home. Flatbread can be made from crushed lentils or straight flour, and are often made with a pocket for stuffing fresh vegetables into. Some Indian breads are made from finely milled rice. These breads can be served alone with butter or used as part of a larger meal plan. When buying flatbread at your local bakery make sure it has been prepared with traditional Indian flours, such as atta or maida to give it the most authentic appearance and flavor.

Greek breads

You may already be familiar with the thick pita breads, but the Greek culture has so many more delicious baked goods to offer. Ask about psomi bread at your local bakery, a crusty, dense bread that pairs well with any meal at home. 'Country bread' or a simple bread made of sourdough and yeast ingredients, is another Greek staple that pairs well with cheeses and meats.  Ask your local bakery if they can whip you up a batch of 'city bread' as well so you can compare this Greek concoction with its more subtle counterpart. You can consume Greek breads the way they are traditionally eaten: with olive oil and various vinegar flavorings.

Your local baker may already be familiar with different cultures and their popular breads, or you may make a request and open their world to different pastries and breads as well. When you open your taste buds to newly prepared flavors you can make your love of bread even more decadent. Interested in learning more about local bread recipes and uses? Click to find out more!