What To Know
- French bread is a blank canvas for savory creations, offering a satisfyingly chewy texture and a neutral flavor that complements a wide range of ingredients.
- A comforting and decadent dessert, French bread pudding is made by soaking bread cubes in a custard mixture and then baking until golden brown.
- Simply soak slices of bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon, then cook them in a pan until golden brown.
French bread, with its crispy crust and soft, airy interior, is a culinary staple. But beyond simply dipping it in olive oil and balsamic vinegar, there’s a world of delicious possibilities when it comes to using this versatile bread. So, if you’re wondering, “What can I cook with French bread?”, you’ve come to the right place.
Savory Delights: French Bread as a Base
French bread is a blank canvas for savory creations, offering a satisfyingly chewy texture and a neutral flavor that complements a wide range of ingredients.
1. French Bread Pizza:
Forget the dough, French bread is the perfect base for a quick and easy pizza. Simply slice a baguette lengthwise, brush with olive oil, and top with your favorite pizza toppings. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and enjoy!
2. French Bread Bruschetta:
A classic Italian appetizer, bruschetta is simple to make with French bread. Toast slices of bread, then top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
3. French Bread Crostini:
Crostini are small, toasted pieces of bread that are perfect for serving with dips and spreads. Simply cut French bread into bite-sized pieces, toast them until golden brown, and then top with your favorite spread. Some popular options include hummus, tapenade, and ricotta cheese with honey.
Sweet Treats: French Bread for Dessert
French bread isn’t just for savory dishes. Its soft texture and subtle sweetness make it a surprisingly delicious base for desserts.
4. French Bread Pudding:
A comforting and decadent dessert, French bread pudding is made by soaking bread cubes in a custard mixture and then baking until golden brown. You can customize this dish with different flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, or fruit.
5. French Toast:
French toast is a breakfast classic that can be made with French bread. Simply soak slices of bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon, then cook them in a pan until golden brown.
6. French Bread Croutons:
Add a satisfying crunch to your salads or soups with homemade croutons. Cut French bread into cubes, toss them with olive oil and seasonings, and bake until golden brown and crispy.
Creative Uses: Thinking Outside the Bread Box
French bread can be incorporated into a variety of dishes in unexpected ways.
7. French Bread Soup Bowls:
For a unique and visually appealing presentation, use French bread as a bowl for your soup. Simply hollow out a baguette, fill it with soup, and enjoy!
8. French Bread Stuffing:
Use French bread as the base for a flavorful stuffing. Cube the bread, then combine it with vegetables, herbs, and broth. Stuff the mixture into a turkey or chicken, or bake it separately.
9. French Bread Crumbs:
Save those leftover ends of French bread and turn them into breadcrumbs. Simply pulse them in a food processor until they reach the desired consistency. Use them to coat chicken, fish, or vegetables, or add them to meatballs or meatloaf.
Beyond the Kitchen: French Bread in Other Applications
French bread’s versatility extends beyond the kitchen.
10. French Bread as a Serving Platter:
Create a rustic and elegant centerpiece for your next party by using a large baguette as a serving platter. Slice it lengthwise, and use it to display cheese, charcuterie, or other appetizers.
11. French Bread as a Fire Starter:
If you’re looking for a natural and eco-friendly way to start a fire, try using dried French bread. Simply crumble it into small pieces and light it with a match or lighter.
The Final Bite: Exploring the Possibilities
French bread is a culinary chameleon, adapting to a wide range of flavors and cooking styles. It’s a testament to the fact that even the simplest ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary with a little creativity. So, the next time you’re looking for inspiration in the kitchen, remember the humble baguette, and let your imagination run wild!
What You Need to Learn
1. Can I freeze French bread?
Absolutely! Freezing French bread is a great way to preserve it for later use. To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.
2. How do I keep French bread fresh?
To keep French bread fresh, store it in a paper bag or a plastic bag with a few holes poked in it. Avoid storing it in an airtight container, as this can make the bread become stale.
3. What are some good toppings for French bread pizza?
The possibilities are endless! Some popular toppings for French bread pizza include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, and cheese. You can also get creative with your toppings and use ingredients like roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or seafood.
4. Can I use French bread for bread crumbs?
Yes, you can use French bread to make breadcrumbs. Simply pulse the bread in a food processor until it reaches the desired consistency. You can use the breadcrumbs to coat chicken, fish, or vegetables, or add them to meatballs or meatloaf.
5. What are some good dips for French bread?
There are many delicious dips that pair well with French bread. Some favorites include hummus, tapenade, pesto, guacamole, and cheese dips. You can also get creative and make your own dips!
