You love fresh bread, fresh from the bakery. Unfortunately, its freshness is very short-lived once at home. You even regret buying several chopsticks, because you never manage to consume them on time. One thing is certain, bread must be stored correctly so that it does not harden or lose its soft texture. Fortunately, there are simple ways to store it in optimal conditions and preserve its freshness. Follow the advice of Arnaud Lorgne, baker from Saint-Gaudens to enjoy it longer.
Bread slices – Source: spm
Bread is still a staple in many homes. Whether it is to make toast for breakfast, sandwiches for lunch or to accompany a good dish with sauce, bread is an integral part of our diet. But, today, it is often put to the test. New types of flour, accelerated fermentation, electric ovens or poor quality ingredients are reasons that end up rancid, drying or hardening faster. But don’t worry, whether bought or made at home, there are several tricks to keep it fresh and fluffy day after day.
- First of all, the bread should be stored at room temperature, in a dry place and away from direct sunlight.
Bread to breathe to keep it better
- It is best to store it in a wooden box, cloth or paper bag, since these materials allow it to breathe properly and retain moisture. Avoid storing it in a plastic bag, especially when it is hot, as this favors the appearance of steam. Moisture eventually builds up and thus creates an environment conducive to mold growth.
Preserve bread with a potato
- A little effective trick to preserve its freshness? The bread will stay fresh longer if you place a piece of apple (or even half a potato) next to it. As it dries, the bread will retain its moisture and flavor.
- Another convenient method is to use salt, since it is a strong absorbent. If placed next to bread in the cupboard, for example, it will remove excess moisture and kill germs.
Beware of misconceptions! To keep it fresh for as long as possible, some people have decided to store their homemade bread in the refrigerator, but this is not a good solution. Although the cold is capable of prolonging its useful life, you run the risk of modifying its texture, drying it out prematurely and, therefore, ending up moldy too quickly.
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To keep it for several days, the freezer is the best option. To do this, it is advisable to cut it into slices and put them in an airtight container. Then, to properly defrost your bread, it is advisable to leave it in the refrigerator for three hours, then at room temperature.
Good to know : Once thawed, bread does not stay fresh as long as thawed bread. A previously frozen baguette usually lasts between two and four days before drying out.
Other Bread Storage Methods
Bread in a bread box – Source: spm
As you surely know, some wooden boxes are specially dedicated to the conservation of bread. In addition to adding an elegant touch to the kitchen, they are known for keeping slices of bread fresh. And this, in particular, thanks to the small holes that promote good air circulation, thus preventing the development of mold. Know that you can store bread (bought or homemade) for about three days at room temperature in this box.
If you plan to eat it ASAP, wrap your bread in a paper bag on the counter. If you prefer it to last a little longer, wrap it in cling film or a plastic bag. But be careful, this material is not recommended in the middle of summer and also learn that it may be less crunchy. To restore their crust, put your slices in the toaster or oven for a few minutes.
Also read: My baker’s trick for storing bread: it’s the only way to keep it fresh for a long time
Finally, the ideal option to store bread is the famous breathable linen bag with closure. Not only does it decorate your kitchen counter very well, but above all it allows you to save on the purchase of a paper or plastic bag. Linen is a light, resistant, durable and washable fabric. As an additional benefit, its properties prevent excess moisture. Unlike plastic, which hardens the bread, linen will allow it to breathe properly and preserve its freshness. Result: it will be crispier on the outside and very soft on the inside.
Advice : If you don’t have a linen bread bag handy, a clean, dry linen towel or cotton tea towel will also do. Just be sure to wrap the bread well so no part is exposed to the air.
Also read: The Trick to Making Delicious, Crispy French Fries: One Overlooked Step Makes All the Difference
