A guide to different varieties of bread that you can easily bake and enjoy!
Bread comes in an almost infinite variety. It is such a vast subject that hundreds of books are written about it. Humans have been eating bread for at least 5000 years, making it with whatever staple grain that grows well in that region; forming it into different shapes depending on their baking technology, and using it either as a main meal or a side to accompany other foods. Other than the traditional white and brown ones, there are dozens of other kinds to choose from.
From Ireland’s famously dense, buttermilk-spiked soda bread to France’s yeasty, buttery brioche to flat pockets of Middle Eastern pita, bread can be synonymous with a way of life. It is generally inexpensive and super versatile; you can make all kinds of amazing recipes with bread. Each variety has its benefit and a perfect pairing that goes with it. So let’s get to know the popular varieties of bread and liven up our table beyond the basic white ones.
Sourdough is not only tastier than the conventional bread, but also nutritious. Standard bakers yeast is not used in its making, unlike the other loaves of bread. Sourdough is a leavened bread made from a starter( i.e. a fermented mixture of flour and water). It is known for its characteristic tangy flavour, chewy texture and crisp, crackly crust. From a healthy point of view, it dominates the standard supermarket loaves. The naturally occurring acids and long fermentation help to break down the gluten, making it more digestible and easy for the body to absorb. And it tastes darn good!
Nutritional Fact
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
100
0.5g
20g
3g
There are 100 calories in 1 slice (28 g) of Sourdough Bread.
Multigrain bread, as the name suggests, is made from a recipe that uses more than one kind of grain. The bread may be made out of wheat, rye, barley, millet, or even finger millet flour. Multigrain bread is healthiest when it is whole grain, thus lowering the risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes. Loaded with fibre, this bread keeps you feeling full for hours and as a result, you won’t be tempted to reach for those unhealthy snacks. Multigrain bread also contains a plethora of micronutrients that are useful for the body.
Nutritional Fact
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
65
0.99g
12.06g
2.6g
There are 65 calories in 1 regular slice of Multigrain Bread.
Brioche bread is of French origin. It is a highly enriched yeast bread, with large amounts of butter, eggs and milk. Butter content typically ranges from 20% to 80%, with eggs usually comprising more than half the hydration. Brioche has numerous uses in cuisine and can take on various forms, served plain or filled, or with many other different savoury fillings, such as hamburgers and sausage. It can also be served with sweet fillings, say fresh fruits, vanilla cream or jam.
The baguette is one of the world’s most celebrated bread and one of France’s most symbolic foods. Thin and long, this classic bread has a crispy crust but is soft and airy inside. From romantic park picnics to impressive breakfasts, this Parisian favourite is a versatile staple. A nutty flavour and delicate golden crumb make it an amazing accompaniment to a savoury broth or as a foundation for fresh mozzarella, basil and tomato sandwiches.
Nutritional Fact:
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
175
1.92g
33.22g
5.63g
There are 175 calories in 1 medium slice of Baguette.
Ciabatta is an Italian yeast-leavened bread made with a lean formula. It is characterised by having a crisp crust and a large, irregular open crumb grain (cell structure). The flour’s high water absorption level is the basis for ciabatta’s dough stickiness, giving it a tendency to flatten under its weight during floor time and baking. It has a high amount of carbohydrates and can be a good option to be taken as a meal. Ciabatta bread is one of the popular choices for making sandwiches and paninis.
Nutritional Fact
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
54
0.7g
10g
1.76g
There are 54 calories in 1 medium slice of Ciabatta.
Focaccia is an Italian bread and it is baked using a baking pan or baking sheet. It’s name is derived from the Latin panis focacius, which means fireplace bread. The dough of the bread is accompanied by fresh herbs or garlic for enhancing its flavours. It can be used for making some amazing garlic bread as well. The bread is also coated with some olive oil before it is baked to make its crust soft yet crunchy. Modern varieties include savoury toppings like olives, tomatoes, and mushrooms. The focaccia bread can be consumed on its own and enjoyed for its rich flavours. However, it can also be eaten with cheese or meat, along with being a tasty dipping.
Nutritional Fact:
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
182
6.1g
26.98g
4.41g
There are 182 calories in 1 slice of Italian Flatbread Focaccia.
Pita bread also known as flatbread is round or oval in shape. It first originated in the Middle East. One of the characteristics of this bread is that it does not get enlarged or expanded when baked. Thus, lying flat during its formation. It is made from wheat flour, hence is low in calories and high in fibres. It also contains minerals like iron and magnesium, making it beneficial for the bone’s strength. Pita bread is best accompanied by various types of sauces like hummus, wraps and falafels.
Nutritional Fact:
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
123
0.64g
25.11g
4.71g
There are 123 calories in 1 medium Whole Wheat Pita Bread.
Rye bread is known to be originated in Europe, the flavours of the bread are strong enough and the bread is dark in colour. It has a low glycemic index as compared to normal bread. Dark rye bread is high in fibre thus keeping our gut healthy and alleviating constipation. It is rich in nutrients like B-complex vitamins and minerals like magnesium and iron. The consumption of rye bread has further enhanced after people have become more aware of the various health benefits that it offers.
Nutritional Fact:
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
67
0.86g
12.56g
2.21g
There are 67 calories in 1 regular slice of Rye Bread.
The Naan originates from India but is today eaten in most South Asian restaurants and homes around the globe. It is made from dry yeast, all-purpose flour, warm water, sugar, salt, ghee and yoghurt. The ingredients are used to make a smooth and stretchy elastic dough which is used to make them. There are also many varieties of naan, such as kulcha and garlic naan(topped with butter and crushed garlic). Traditionally, naan is served hot from the pan, slightly charred, brushed with ghee-Indian clarified butter, and it is usually consumed as an accompaniment to a variety of dishes.
Nutritional Fact:
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
137
5.1g
18.8g
3.74g
There are 137 calories in 1 piece of Indian Flatbread Naan.
Soda bread is an Irish variety that uses sodium bicarbonate rather than traditional yeast to help the bread rise. Traditional soda bread has just four ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt and buttermilk. Soda bread is among the easiest home-baked bread and is one of the quickest bread to go from the mixing bowl to the table. Since there’s no yeast involved, it’s nearly impossible to mess it up. This bread carries a mild flavour and pairs well with soups, stews, or a sandwich.
Nutritional Fact:
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
82
1.42g
15.88g
1.87g
There are 82 calories in 1 ounce of Irish Soda Bread.
