Ah, bread. What is it about bread that has us all so obsessed?
Is it the smell of freshly baked bread?
Is it that anything can be made into a sandwich?
Is it because it’s the easiest way to make a meal?
We all have our reasons, and while we may not be able to fully explain why bread is so beloved, we can talk about the differences between French bread and regular bread. It’s time to get to know French bread.
Nutritional Content of French Bread
French bread isn’t just a simple piece of white bread, there is much more to it than that. French bread contains significantly more protein, fat and dietary fiber than regular bread.
It is also higher in sodium and cholesterol. French bread is made with yeast, whereas regular bread is not, so it does contain small amounts of Vitamin B. French bread also contains iron, calcium and magnesium.
Nutritional Content of Regular Bread
Regular bread does not contain as many nutrients as French bread does. Regular bread is made from refined flour, water, salt and a leavening agent such as baking powder or baking soda.
It is low in fat and protein and is a good source of carbohydrates. It does contain small amounts of Vitamin B and minerals such as calcium and iron.
Taste of French Bread
The taste of French bread can vary depending on the recipe used. It usually has a crusty exterior with a chewy and mildly sweet interior. Some people find it has a slightly nutty flavor, while others find it to be too plain.
French bread can also be quite salty depending on the recipe.
Taste of Regular Bread
The flavor of regular bread is quite plain and it doesn’t have the same sweetness and slight nuttiness of French bread. Regular bread has a smoother texture with less of a crusty exterior.
It is also not as chewy as French bread, but still has a pleasant texture.
Texture of French Bread
The exterior of French bread is usually crusty, which gives it a crunchy texture. The inside is usually quite chewy and slightly dense.
As it cools, French bread can become quite hard.
Texture of Regular Bread
Regular bread usually has a softer and smoother texture. The crust is usually much thinner and less crunchy. It is also less dense and less chewy than French bread.
Difference in Cooking Time & Process
French bread is usually baked in a very hot oven for a shorter period of time. This results in a crisp exterior and tender interior.
Regular bread, on the other hand, is usually baked in a cooler oven for a longer period of time. This results in a softer, fluffier texture.
Uses for French Bread & Regular Bread
French bread is perfect for making French toast and croque-monsieur. It can also be used for sandwiches, paninis and bruschetta.
Regular bread is perfect for making sandwiches and toast. It can also be used for French toast and croque-monsieur.
Summary
French bread and regular bread have different nutritional values, tastes and textures. French bread is usually crusty and chewy with a nutty flavor, while regular bread is smoother and has less of a crust.
French bread is usually baked in a hot oven for a shorter period of time, while regular bread is baked in a cooler oven for a longer period of time. French bread is perfect for making French toast and sandwiches, while regular bread is great for making sandwiches, toast and French toast.