A bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside… a real pleasure! But after a day, it becomes dry or rubbery. Rather than seeing it harden too quickly, follow these bakers’ tips to prolong its freshness without the fridge or preservatives.
1.Choosing the right type of bread
Not all breads are kept the same way. Long-fermented breads, such as sourdough or wholemeal breads, stay soft longer thanks to better moisture distribution. Unlike industrial breads, they dry out less quickly and keep a pleasant texture for several days.
2.Avoid plastic, opt for cotton or linen
The common reflex is to store your bread in a plastic bag, but this is a mistake. This material traps moisture, making the crust soft and promoting mold.
Opt for a cotton or linen tea towel : These fabrics absorb excess moisture while maintaining the tenderness of the crumb. Simply wrap your bread and place it in a dry place.
3.The paper bag: effective protection
For optimal preservation, bakers recommend placing your bread wrapped in a tea towel in a paper bag. This method protects the bread from air while allowing slight ventilation, perfect for maintaining its crispiness.
4.Finding the right location
The storage location is just as important as the packaging:
- Avoid moisture : Bread quickly absorbs moisture from the environment, which can make it soggy.
- Keep it at room temperature : Never put it in the refrigerator, this accelerates its staling.
- Place it in a cupboard or wooden bread box to avoid direct contact with air.
5.Freezing: the long-term solution
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