Vegetable sandwiches, poha, or an alternative to fluffy pavs, bread plays an important role in Indian cuisine. Its versatility makes it perfect as an accompaniment to any dish. Whether it's the softness of white bread, the nuttiness of brown bread, the wholesome goodness of multigrain bread, or the freshness of homemade bread, each variety must be enjoyed at its freshest. However, in a country where temperatures fluctuate on an extreme level, keeping bread from staling can be a challenge. However, as hardcore bread lovers, we won't let your favourite loaves of bread suffer a sad fate. Read on to learn how to store bread so that it doesn't stale!
Also Read: Breaking Down Brown Bread: Is Your Healthy Choice Actually a Hidden Culprit?
Fresh bread storage: White bread is the most commonly found food item in Indian households. Photo Credit: iStock
Market-Bought White Bread:
With its pillowy softness and delicate texture, white bread is a household favourite across India. However, if you are someone who has to throw away white bread frequently because it goes stale, then your storage techniques might need a check. Here's how you can keep your white bread fresh for longer than usual.
1. Avoid Refrigeration
While refrigeration may seem like an appropriate way to maintain the freshness of white bread, it quickens staling.
2. Bread Box
Invest in a bread box with proper ventilation. It can do wonders in maintaining the texture and taste of white bread in a cool, dry place in your pantry.
3. Freezing
If you don't plan to consume the bread within the first few days of its manufacturing, consider freezing it. Wrap the entire loaf in aluminium foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Thaw only when you need to use it.
Brown bread should be refrigerated to keep its moisture intact.
Photo Credit: iStock
Market-Bought Brown Bread:
Brown bread, known for its nutty flavour and signature light brown colour, has become a popular choice amongst people watching their calories or weight management. Here's how you can keep it fresh for longer:
1. Refrigeration
Unlike white bread, brown bread benefits from refrigeration. Store it in the refrigerator in its original packaging to prevent moisture loss.
2. Slice As Needed
To minimize exposure to moisture and air, slice the bread only when needed to retain its freshness for a longer period.
3. Freezing
Just like white bread, you can freeze the brown bread and thaw it only as and when required.
Just like brown bread, multigrain bread should be refrigerated.
Photo Credit: iStock
Market-Bought Multigrain Bread:
Packed with the goodness of grains, multigrain bread can be used in a variety of sandwiches to add a wholesome dimension to meals. Here's how you can keep it for longer:
1. Refrigeration
Just like brown bread, multigrain bread benefits from refrigeration. Store it in its original packaging or an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
2. Wrap In Cloth
If you want to avoid refrigeration, you can wrap the bread in a clean cloth and place it in a bread box. This can help regulate moisture levels and prevent the bread from becoming too dry.
3. Consume Fast
Multigrain bread tends to stale faster than white and brown breads so it's best to consume it as soon as possible.
Homemade bread should be consumed in 2-3 days.
Photo Credit: iStock
Homemade Bread:
If you love baking bread at home, then you must want to know how to keep it fresh for as long as possible. Here is how you store it:
1. Cool Completely
Allow your homemade bread to cool completely before storing it. Warm bread can become soggy due to condensation if stored in a sealed container.
2. Wrap Properly
Once cooled, wrap it properly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil to seal its freshness. Store it in an airtight container.
3. Freeze
Homemade bread can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you don't consume it by then, try freezing it.
Also Read: 5 Types Of Breads And Their Health Benefits
Which is your favourite kind of bread? Let us know in the comments below!