Knead to Know: A Journey Through Bread

Bread is the ultimate food. It doesn’t need to impress or justify itself; it just works. It’s comforting, satisfying, and always there when you need it. A good loaf is versatile. Whether it’s holding a sandwich together, soaking up soup, or simply being paired with a bit of butter, it does its job effortlessly. It’s the food that’s always dependable, always fulfilling. I should know, I'm Vietnamese, and we love our bread!

In Vietnam, bread isn’t just something you eat, it's a part of our culture; our identity. The bánh mì came from the French, but the Vietnamese made it their own, combining the baguette with our own flavors and ingredients. It’s not just a sandwich; it’s a fusion of history, culture, and creativity. It brings people together, reminding us of where we’ve been and where we’re going. Bread in Vietnam is in the shared moments, and the traditions that connect us.

The beauty of bread lies in its simplicity. A warm loaf straight from the oven is all you need for comfort. There’s something about it that feels like home. It doesn’t need fancy toppings to make it perfect. Just a warm slice, a bit of butter, and you're good to go.

Bread is also endlessly adaptable. You can make it as simple as flour, yeast, water, and salt, or you can get creative with yogurt, herbs, grains, and spices. You can bake it in a few hours or take your time with a sourdough starter. It meets you wherever you are, whatever you’re in the mood for.

What makes bread stand out is how it’s more than just food, it’s a part of the experience. It’s what connects us at the dinner table and what grounds us when we’re gathered with loved ones. It’s more than something we eat; it’s something we share. It's comfort in its softness and sweetness.

As I return to my blog, and work on personal healing, I’ll be starting a new series dedicated to bread, and all my favourite ways to eat it.