bread

Bread is one of humanity’s most ancient and essential foods. Its aroma and flavour have accompanied us for thousands of years and continue to hold a special place in our diets. At its simplest, bread is made from flour and water, often with added ingredients to aid the leavening process. Traditionally, this involves a sourdough starter—a fermented mixture of flour and water— but yeast or baking soda are commonly used as well. Once the dough has risen, it’s baked in the oven and then ready to serve. Bread is prepared in a variety of forms across cultures, ranging from classic wheat loaves to wholegrain, sourdough, or potato bread, as well as more exotic options like naan, pita, or flatbreads from the Middle East. 

Why include bread in your diet?

Bread is valued for its versatility and its ability to satisfy hunger. It is made from flour, which contains complex carbohydrates. These digest more slowly compared to simple carbohydrates, providing a steady release of energy. Then there are wholegrain breads, such as those made with rye or spelt flour, which are also a good source of beneficial fibre. Bread dough is often enriched with seeds or nuts, which provide healthy fats, enhancing its nutritional profile depending on the ingredients used.

Which bread to make?

While bread is readily available in shops, many would agree that nothing beats the taste of homemade bread. You can try your hand at baking the classic wheat, potato, rye, wholegrain, or seeded varieties. For a healthier twist, you might enjoy carrot bread with pumpkin seeds or a low-carb protein loaf. Even if you’re avoiding gluten, there’s no need to give up bread— try making a homemade gluten-free protein loaf using alternative flour or a flourless low-carb protein version. And when you’re craving something sweet, consider trying your hand at the protein banana bread or a chocolate zucchini protein bread. 

Bread is the perfect choice for breakfasts, snacks, or making sandwiches and canapés. Simply spread it with a topping, add some cheese, ham, or vegetables, and you’ll have a balanced snack ready in no time. It also pairs well with salads, soups, or stews, and older bread can be transformed into toast, eggy bread, or croutons. Last but not least, for those who love experimenting, try making Turkish bread, pita, Indian naan, or Italian focaccia.