No matter your food preferences, there’s a sandwich for everyone. The versatility of sandwiches makes them a favorite meal choice, whether you enjoy a classic club sandwich or something less common, like a chip butty. Regardless of your favorite fillings, the type of bread you choose is crucial. To gain insights on selecting the best sandwich bread, The Daily Meal consulted Rodger Bowser, managing partner at Zingerman’s Deli.
Bowser emphasized the importance of high-quality bread, stating, “Make sure you use good quality bread.” But what defines good quality sandwich bread? According to Bowser, it should have the right crumb structure, moisture, and flavor. He noted, “It just doesn’t get dry. It has a good amount of salt and flavor.”
As grocery stores now offer a wide variety of bread options beyond just white and wheat, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
However, with a few tips, you can simplify the selection process.
Choosing Sturdy Breads for Better Sandwiches
When it comes to sandwiches, certain breads hold up better against various ingredients. Bowser recommends sturdy options like baguettes or dense whole grain loaves, such as Zingerman’s Bakehouse True North or Pain de Montagne. He advises, “Start with good bread! Cut nice, big slices, and then fill it up with great ingredients.”
Pain de Montagne, an artisanal bread from the mountainous regions of France and Switzerland, is excellent for thick slices.
It pairs well with a variety of fillings, from traditional corned beef with black pepper mayo to chicken parmesan. Other reliable choices include rye, ciabatta, and Italian bread. Bowser adds, “Good bread is good bread, regardless of what you put inside it.”
Enhancing Flavor with Quality Ingredients
A dry sandwich can be just as unappealing as a soggy one. Bowser suggests using different types of mustard to enhance flavor without making the bread soggy. Mustard adds a good taste and comes in many varieties, from mild yellow to spicy brown, which can elevate your sandwiches.
Bowser emphasizes the importance of using high-quality ingredients alongside good bread. He states, “You can keep it simple, but the better your ingredients, the better your sandwich will taste.” For sweet sandwiches, such as those made with grilled brie, apple, and cranberry, he advises against using sweet bread with sweet fillings. This tip can significantly improve your sandwich-making skills.