LA BREA BAKERY
La Brea Bakery Italian Round Bread
What it is
This is a rustic, hearth-baked Italian-style bread. It has a characteristic round shape and a satisfyingly chewy interior. The crust is typically golden brown and offers a pleasant crispness when fresh. It is made with simple ingredients, allowing the natural flavors of the dough to shine through. The bread is designed to be a versatile staple for various meals.
How people cook with it
This bread is excellent for enjoying with meals or as a base for creative dishes.
- Sandwich base
- Dipping bread
- Crouton ingredient
- Bread pudding component
To best enjoy its texture, warm the bread slightly before serving. A quick toast in the oven or a few minutes in a toaster can revive the crust. It can be sliced for sandwiches, torn into pieces for dipping in olive oil or soup, or cubed for making croutons. For a heartier meal, it can be used as a base for bruschetta or as a side to pasta dishes. Its sturdy structure holds up well to moist ingredients.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to softer white breads, this Italian round has a more substantial crust and a denser, chewier crumb. Its flavor profile is generally more nuanced, with a slight tang from the fermentation process. It is less airy than a baguette and more robust than a typical sandwich loaf.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike appreciate this bread for its quality and versatility.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, store any remaining bread in a bread box or a loosely tied plastic bag at room temperature. For longer storage, it can be sliced and frozen, then thawed or toasted directly from frozen.