How to History of bread

What You Need to Know

Bread was central to the formation of early human societies. From the Fertile Crescent, where wheat was domesticated, cultivation spread north and west, to Europe and North Africa, and east toward East Asia. This in turn led to the formation of towns, which curtailed nomadic lifestyles, and gave rise to other forms of societal organization. Similar developments occurred in the Americas with maize and in Asia with rice.

Steps

1. 1.

   Sourdough (Ancient Egypt): Natural fermentation creates complex flavor and extended shelf life

2. 2.

   Baguette (France): High hydration dough creates signature open crumb structure

3. 3.

   Naan (South Asia): Tandoor baking creates characteristic charred spots and soft texture

The Science

Primary Reaction

Maillard Reaction

Common Mistakes