23 Iconic Breads Around the World

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Sourdough - Pretty much everywhere

Sourdough doesn't belong to any one culture, although the first recorded use of this type of bread dates all the way back to ancient Egypt. It is not only a type of bread but also a traditional baking process that's been used around the world for thousands of years. It requires a starter that absorbs naturally occurring yeast (wild yeast) to act as a leavener. Essentially, the dough is produced through a slow fermentation process, and the name "sourdough" reflects its slightly acidic flavor, which is derived from the combination of lactic and acetic acids that are created during this process.

You can still find sourdough breads around the world, but many are now also made with commercial yeasts and cultured yeasts. Interestingly, during the first lockdown of the Covid-19 pandemic, there was a marked revival of interest in sourdough, following the furious hoardings of food supplies and a shortage of baker's yeast.

Baking bread? You should keep a bread diary.