It’s crusty, it’s fluffy, and it’s having a huge year. That’s right, now matter how many low-carb diets creep in, bread is back and it’s here to stay.
During a year where everything went sideways, bread sales went up. And not just the fully baked stuff, you guys also went gaga for sourdough bread kits—sales increased 600% this year.
But why bread and why now?
To start, you had more time at home (and that means more time to fill). Enter, a new hobby. And when you’re going down the list, there are lots of potentials. Sewing, picking up a new instrument, gardening. But baking your own bread hops to the top of the list because it’s a pretty inexpensive hobby. And there’s also a low barrier to entry. Have flour, salt, and water? You’re a baker now.
Another reason is the innate sense of accomplishment. Your bread doesn’t just go from oven to crostini, there’s a stop in between. Is a perfect loaf really perfect if not one else has seen it? Given the time and research that’s gone into your new carb creation, you’re going to need to show it off. Posting that picture of your sourdough baby doesn’t just show that you’ve got skill, it also lets everyone know that you’re living your best life, even when you can’t go outside.
And last but not yeast (sorry), one of the main reasons why bread had a big year is that it’s freaking delicious. It’s basically a hug that you can eat, which is extra necessary when real hugs are off the table.
Whether you like yours dotted with olives or submerged in balsamic vinegar, one thing’s true: you love bread. So grab a fresh slice, slather on the butter, and bask in its comforting glory. And in the end, it’s nice to know that at least something had a good 2020.