Stow the Dough: Storing Bread for Maximum Freshness

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There’s nothing better than fresh bread with a warm, soft crumb and crunchy, chewy crust. We want you to get the most out of each and every loaf so here are our top tips for storing your bread at home.

Bread is best stored at room temperature, not in the fridge.

Many assume that preserving the life of perishables means placing them in the fridge. Plot twist: bread actually stales quicker there. Without getting too technical, there’s a chemical process that occurs in bread, called ‘starch recrystallisation’. When starch recrystallises, the bread will become stale. How slow or fast this happens will depend on the temperature of its conditions, with the most rapid recrystallisation occurring at 2-4°C and slowest at 24-30°C.

So if you’re eating your bread within three days, it’s best to store it at room temperature.

How can I stop my bread from drying out?

Whilst using your bread, keep it on a breadboard standing up with the cut/open side facing down. Sliced bread will dry out much quicker so we suggest you slice it, as you need it.

What container should I use?

It’s best to store your bread in a breadbox made of wood or clay. Otherwise, you can simply re-package it in the paper bag or wrapping and seal with cling film. When storing, try to avoid placing your bread in direct sunlight or in the way of drafts or breezes.

How long does Brasserie Bread sourdough last?

You won’t find any chemical preservatives or additives in our artisan baked goods. In general, our sourdough loaves will keep for three to four days, the lighter Italian rustic loaves for two to three days and the fruit loaves for five to six days.

Is it okay to freeze bread?

Yes! If you’re not planning on finishing the loaf within three days it’s best to freeze your sourdough. To get the best result place loaf in a plastic bag overnight prior to freezing.

What’s the best way to reheat bread?

After storing your sourdough in the freezer, the best way to refresh will depend on whether your loaf is sliced or whole. For sliced loaves simply place the required slices in the toaster; if you wish to refresh a whole loaf allow it to thaw to room temperature by leaving it in the plastic bag allowing the moisture to be reabsorbed. Refresh your loaf in a 200°C oven for 5-8 minutes until the crunch is returned to the crust.

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