Panera Bread Bread Pairings: the rise of break | baker's lore our sourdough story | bread pairings | recipes
Bread Pairings With the help of Tom Gumpel, our certified master baker and Vice president of Bakery Development at Panera Bread, we are here to help you navigate your way through determining the perfect bread pairing for your next meal. Whether entertaining guests or enjoying a nice meal at home with family, bread is essential. If baking at home or picking up a loaf at your local Panera Bread bakery-cafe, we hope the bread pairing recommendations below will help make your next meal a success! Bread Varieties - Distinguishing Characteristics - Ideal Meal Pairings Sourdough - Golden, crackled crust and an exceptionally soft crumb with a distinctly sour flavor. - Grilled and roasted meats; grilled vegetables and fresh greens with flavorful dressings. Adds a tangy complement to any hearty meal. Focaccia - Traditional Italian flat bread often flavored with olive oil and robust ingredients such as olives or sun dried tomatoes for a distinctly Mediterranean taste. - Pastas with tomato or cream sauces, braised meats and sauteacute;ed seasoned vegetables. Pairs well with Italian cuisine. Whole Grain - A dense, chewy loaf made with whole wheat flour for a hearty, nutty flavor. - Toasted with breakfast egg dishes and a favorite selection for almost any sandwich. Also pairs well with braised and roasted meats. A healthful and hearty addition to any meal. Asiago Cheese - An Italian aged cheese mixed with sourdough for a zesty and slightly spicy flavor. - Grilled vegetables and meats; pairs well with cream or broth-based soups and with Caesar or mixed greens salad. A perfect way to add the flavor of aged cheese to a variety of "comfort foods." Rye - Dense and spongy in texture, dark in color with full-bodied flavor. - Braised and roasted meats; traditional sandwiches made with lean proteins and cheese. Allows for a flavorful tweak to favorite meals. French - Crunchy crust with a very light crumb; mild and slightly sweet in flavor. - Sauteacute;ed or fried chicken and fish; a traditional favorite with soups and salads. Also adds a sweet, light taste to many breakfast items. Sweet/Fruit - Sweet dough typically flavored with fruit, spices and/or nuts such as Cinnamon Raisin. - Traditional breakfast and luncheon fare; or as dessert with any meal.