How To Improve Store Bought Garlic Bread!
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So many different dishes are elevated with the addition of a side of garlic bread, but all too often, store bought versions can be underwhelming.
Here, we’re going to take a look at various techniques for taking mediocre garlic bread and turning it into something that’s worthy of being served up at a dinner party…
How To Improve Store Bought Garlic Bread
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One of the easiest ways to improve store-bought garlic bread is by adding extra ingredients. Herbs, such as oregano or chopped rosemary, can give the bread a delightful aroma and enhance its taste.
Additionally, a little creativity with toppings can go a long way in transforming an ordinary store-bought garlic bread into a delicious homemade delight.
Another important aspect to consider when preparing store-bought garlic bread is the cooking technique.
Adjusting oven temperature, carefully monitoring the baking time, and even employing additional methods like broiling can make a significant difference in both taste and texture.
Read on for more details, and detailed instructions to try at home…
Choosing Store Bought Garlic Bread
When selecting store bought garlic bread, it’s essential to consider a few important factors.
By carefully examining the ingredients and the type of bread used, one can significantly enhance the overall taste and texture.
Firstly, look for a brand that uses real garlic in their garlic bread, as this will provide a more authentic flavour.
Some options include New York Bakery Pre-Sliced Loaf and New York Bakery Mama Bella’s Garlic Toast.
However, it is crucial to remember that quality and consistency may vary between different batches. Therefore, familiarising oneself with various brands may help in finding a personal favourite.
Next, consider the thickness and size of the bread slices.
Depending on your preferences, a thicker slice like Texas Toast may offer a more satisfying and filling option. Conversely, a thinner slice may prove to be a better choice if you’re looking for a lighter side dish.
Lastly, evaluate the type of bread being used.
Ideally, opting for a loaf with a good balance of crusty exterior and soft interior can lead to a more enjoyable texture. Different types of bread may also influence the final taste, so feel free to explore various kinds to discover a perfect fit.
In summary, choosing the right store bought garlic bread involves considering the ingredients used, the slice thickness and size, and the type of bread.
By keeping these factors in mind, it will be easier to find a store bought option that can be elevated through additional preparation and toppings.
Elevating the Garlic Flavour
Improving store-bought garlic bread can be as simple as adding a few extra ingredients and using a few clever techniques.
Let’s dive into two methods that can elevate the garlic flavour and transform your garlic bread…
Enhancing the Garlic Spread
An easy way to enhance the store-bought garlic spread is by incorporating complementary ingredients.
One option is to mix in a generous pinch of dried herbs like oregano or chopped rosemary, which can complement the garlic flavour.
Another idea is to add an extra knob of butter for a richer and creamier texture.
If you prefer a stronger taste, you can also stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a delightful spicy kick.
Adding Fresh Garlic
Introducing fresh garlic to your store-bought garlic bread can significantly elevate its flavour profile.
You can either mince or crush the garlic, depending on your preference, and then simply mix it with the existing garlic spread.
Just a clove or two of fresh garlic can make a world of difference, adding a more authentic and robust garlic flavour to the bread.
After making these adjustments, you can follow the regular baking instructions of the store-bought garlic bread.
Customising with Additional Ingredients
Store-bought garlic bread can easily be elevated by adding your own personal touch.
Customising it with herbs and cheese makes a world of difference in both taste and appearance.
In this section, you’ll find ideas for how to enhance store-bought garlic bread to create a delightful treat.
Incorporating Herbs
One fantastic way to boost the flavour of store-bought garlic bread is to add your favourite herbs.
Tasting Table suggests sprinkling oregano or chopped rosemary on the bread before heating. Herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme also work well.
To incorporate herbs:
- Choose fresh or dried herbs, depending on your preference.
- Finely chop fresh herbs or crush dried herbs to release their flavour.
- Sprinkle on the bread prior to baking, ensuring even distribution.
This simple addition can add a burst of flavour to your garlic bread, making it taste more homemade.
Adding Cheese
Another popular way to customise store-bought garlic bread is by adding cheese.
Cheese complements garlic and adds a rich, savoury taste to the bread.
It also creates a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
To add cheese to your garlic bread, follow these simple steps:
- Grate your preferred cheese – Parmesan, mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of your favourites.
- Layer the grated cheese on top of the garlic bread, covering it evenly.
- Bake the bread as per the package instructions, giving it an extra couple of minutes if needed to achieve a bubbly, golden cheese topping.
Different Cooking Techniques
Improving store-bought garlic bread can be achieved through simple yet effective cooking techniques.
In this section, we will explore different methods to enhance the flavour and texture of your garlic bread.
Grilling Options
Grilling is an excellent way to add a smoky, charred flavour to your garlic bread.
To start, simply preheat your grill to medium heat. Unwrap the store-bought garlic bread and place it on the grill, buttered side down.
Cook for a few minutes until grill marks appear, then flip and cook the other side until crispy.
To add an extra layer of flavour, you can brush the bread with additional garlic butter or sprinkle it with herbs such as oregano or chopped rosemary before grilling.
This method will give your garlic bread a delightful, toasty crust and an incredible aroma.
Toasting for Crispiness
Another technique to improve store-bought garlic bread is toasting.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
Slice leftover dinner rolls or any available store-bought bread in half horizontally and brush both halves with garlic butter.
Place the bread on the prepared baking sheet and bake on a lower rack for 8 to 10 minutes, until warm and crisp.
For extra-crispy garlic bread, you can also broil the bread for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown.
By experimenting with these cooking techniques, you can transform your store-bought garlic bread into a delicious, unforgettable side dish. Enjoy the rich flavours and crispy texture achieved through grilling and toasting, and impress your guests with your culinary skills.
Conclusion
In conclusion, store-bought garlic bread can be truly transformed with some simple adjustments and added ingredients.
By incorporating additional flavours, experimenting with heating methods, and focusing on presentation, one can create a homemade taste even with pre-made products.
Firstly, enhancing the store-bought garlic bread by adding extra butter, cheese, or herbs, such as suggested by Tasting Table, can elevate its taste and create a more satisfactory garlic bread experience. Remember to wrap the bread in aluminium foil when heating for an even crust and to prevent burning.
Another important factor is the method of heating the bread.
Whether it’s in a preheated pan with butter side up or using a grill, these various techniques can add distinct flavours, textures, and depths to the garlic bread. Don’t forget to slice and serve the bread to your liking after it’s finished cooking.
Last but not least, presentation plays a significant role in an enjoyable garlic bread experience. Beautifully arranged slices, garnished with melting butter or herbs, can make a wonderful addition to any meal.
Enjoy!
Before you go, you might also want to check out my guide to meals to serve with garlic bread, for some dinner time inspiration.
