Bread — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Bread should have a crisp crust and a soft, airy interior, ideally made from whole grains with few added sugars or preservatives. The aroma should be fresh and yeasty, a hallmark of proper fermentation practices.

Reject bread that feels excessively heavy or has a uniform, spongy texture, often a sign of overprocessing. Also, avoid bread with any signs of mold or an unusual smell, indicating it is past its best.

Bread should be stored at room temperature in a bread box or a paper bag to maintain its crust. Plastic bags can be used if you prefer a softer crust. Bread typically lasts up to a week when stored properly.

Refrigeration can make bread stale more quickly, so it’s best to avoid this. Humidity can cause mold growth, so storing bread in a dry place is essential. For longer storage, freezing bread slices in airtight bags is effective.

Bread can last for 3-7 days at room temperature, depending on the type. For longer storage, bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it is tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn and maintain its quality.

Leftover bread can be repurposed into a variety of delicious dishes. Turn it into breadcrumbs by drying and grinding it, perfect for breading meats or topping casseroles. You can also use bread to make croutons for salads or soups by cutting it into cubes and toasting it with olive oil and seasonings.

Transform leftover bread into a sweet bread pudding by soaking it in a custard mixture and baking until golden. It can also be used for making French toast or stuffed French toast for breakfast. If you have a lot of leftover bread, consider making a strata or savory bread pudding with cheese and vegetables. Bread can also be turned into bruschetta by toasting slices and topping them with tomatoes, garlic, and basil, or simply frozen for later use.