Breads

If you are really adventurous and want the whole experience of sandwich making, why not make your own? There are few things more satisfying than a freshly baked steaming loaf that you just took out of the oven – double yum!

The choice is yours of course. Get out the flour, those baking pans and roll up your sleeves. Or grab your keys and head to the local bakery or grocery deli. Depending on the amount of time you have and the type of sandwich you want, you are in for a treat.

Breads for Sandwiches

Below you will find a list of breads and a little about each one. Different breads offer unique textures, flavors, and nutritional benefits. Here's a guide to some of the most popular types of sandwich breads to make your sandwich dreams come true.

1. Whole Wheat Bread

I'm sure you've tried or at least heard of this first one. Made from whole-grain flour, this bread is a healthier option compared to plain white bread. It offers a denser texture, a nutty flavor, and is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you full. If you aren't that into experimenting, then this is as close to white bread as you can get for a regular sandwich.

2. Multigrain Bread

This variety combines several types of grains like barley, millet, and oats, along with whole wheat flour. Multigrain bread is packed with nutrients and has a hearty, robust flavor that's perfect for gourmet sandwiches. It's most likely topped with seeds and may have some sprinkled throughout the dough. I'm not much of a fan of the whole seeds, but it might be your thing. 

3. Rye Bread

Known for its distinct, slightly sour taste, rye bread is a popular choice for sandwiches like pastrami or corned beef. It is denser than other breads and can be a good source of fiber. This bread usually has carraway seeds in the dough as well or maybe sprinkled on top. There are some that are made with just plain rye flour, which is my preference.

4. Sourdough Bread

Made through a fermentation process that gives it a tangy flavor, sourdough has a chewy crust and soft interior. It pairs well with a variety of sandwich fillings, from savory to sweet. If you decide to make your own version, you will need to start with a sourdough starter which is a process all on its own. I've made a few and the results are delicious when your starter is a good one. And you can feed your starter for making future loaves.

5. Ciabatta

This Italian bread is known for its crisp crust and airy interior and is one of our favorite choices for sandwiches. It's perfect for panini and works well with ingredients like mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. We absolutely love it for vegan meatball sandwiches.

6. Focaccia

Another Italian favorite, focaccia is a flatbread often seasoned with olive oil, herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning, and sometimes cheese. It's a great backdrop for Mediterranean-inspired sandwiches. Add some sliced olives and sundried tomatoes and you'll be good to go!

7. Baguette

Another one of our favorites is a classic French bread, the baguette. It is long and slender with a crispy crust and soft interior. It's perfect for making classic sandwiches like the French dip or banh mi. Be sure to use them quickly because they don't last long. Although you could always use leftover stale baguettes for your weekend French toast brunch.

8. Pita Bread

Originating from the Middle East, pita bread is a round, pocket-style flatbread. It can be filled with a variety of ingredients, making it perfect for wraps and gyros. I love using these to make vegan sloppy joes.

9. Gluten-Free Bread

For those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, gluten-free bread options made from rice, almond, or coconut flour are readily available. These breads aim to provide a similar texture and taste to traditional wheat-based bread. Our daughter has several favorites, from wraps to pitas, and regular loaf breads. There are so many options available these days.

10. Flatbreads and Wraps

Made from various flours, these can be great alternatives to traditional bread slices. Wraps offer versatility for creating wraps with a variety of fillings, such as meats, vegetables, and spreads. We love making our version of Chipotle's sofrito's, including the avocado. So yummy! 

Choosing the right bread can elevate your sandwich experience, adding flavor and texture that complements your chosen fillings. Whether you're looking for a health-conscious option or a bread with bold character, there's a type of bread to meet every taste and dietary need. Choose one or several, depending on which kind of sandwich you're planning to make.

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