French Bread — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Characteristically crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, French bread should have a golden-brown crust. The loaf should sound hollow when tapped, which is a good indicator of proper baking.

Avoid French bread that is pale or feels heavy for its size, as this can indicate it was underbaked. Bread with a hard crust or that crumbles easily should also be avoided, as it may not offer the best eating experience.

French bread should be stored at room temperature, preferably in a paper bag. This maintains its crusty exterior and soft interior for up to two days.

Air exposure can cause French bread to become stale quickly. Avoid storing it in plastic bags, which can make the crust soft. For longer storage, consider freezing and reheating to regain its fresh-baked quality.

French bread can last for 1-2 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, French bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Proper storage helps maintain its crustiness and flavor, ensuring it stays fresh for later use.

Leftover French bread can be used in a variety of savory and sweet dishes. Use it to make garlic bread by spreading it with butter, garlic, and herbs, then toasting until golden. French bread is also great when turned into croutons by cubing, tossing with olive oil and seasonings, and baking until crispy.

Use French bread in a bread pudding by tearing it into pieces and mixing with eggs, milk, and spices, then baking until set. If you have a lot of French bread, consider using it to make French toast by dipping it in an egg mixture and frying until golden. French bread can also be used as a base for bruschetta or crostini, topped with tomatoes, cheese, and fresh herbs, or blended into breadcrumbs for coating meats or vegetables. For a quick snack, enjoy French bread with cheese, cold cuts, or a spread like Nutella or jam.