Jacquet
Soft White Sandwich Bread
What it is
This is a very soft, finely textured white bread, often called pain de mie in French. It is baked in a rectangular pan with a lid, which creates its signature square shape and crustless edges. The crumb is uniform and slightly dense, making it ideal for delicate preparations. It is a staple for many types of sandwiches and toasts.
How people cook with it
This bread is versatile and can be used for both sweet and savory dishes. Its mild flavor makes it a good base for many ingredients.
- Classic sandwiches
- French toast
- Breadcrumbs
- Canapés
Pain de mie is perfect for making sandwiches because its soft texture and square shape hold fillings well without tearing. It can be lightly toasted for a firmer base or used as is. For French toast, it absorbs liquid evenly, creating a tender result. It also grinds easily into fine breadcrumbs, excellent for coating or binding. When making canapés, its uniform slices provide a neat foundation for toppings.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike rustic loaves with thick crusts, pain de mie has a very thin, soft crust and a uniformly fine crumb. This makes it less chewy and ideal for recipes where a delicate texture is desired, such as tea sandwiches or when making smooth breadcrumbs.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs often choose this bread for its consistent texture and ease of use in various preparations.
How to keep the rest
To keep the remaining bread fresh, store it in its original packaging or a sealed plastic bag at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as it can dry out the bread. It can also be frozen for longer storage.