It’s All About the Bread
Quality protein, flavorful condiments and fresh toppings are key for successful sandwich sales. But there’s one more thing that’s often an afterthought to chefs and operators—the bread. Upscale, artisan bread is a potential menu differentiator (and profit generator) that should not be ignored.
When it comes to sandwiches, attention is shifting from the protein to the carbohydrate—80% of consumers say bread quality is very important. Patrons are interested in new breads, rolls and buns that can add texture and flavor to their sandwiches and burgers. Think about the unique breads and “sandwich carriers” that have been receiving a lot of press recently, like Taco Bell’s Waffle Taco and Dunkin Donuts’s Glazed Donut Breakfast Sandwich.
Breads are stealing the spotlight for financial reasons, too. With the cost of beef and other meat on the rise, chefs are compelled to create new menu items that don’t rely as much on expensive proteins. Artisan breads are a different, more affordable sandwich component chefs can highlight on their menus.
Try these burger and sandwich ideas featuring unique, on-trend breads:
- Three Philosophers Sliders—This recipe features three mini turkey burgers, served on three different buns with distinctive flavor profiles: German, barbecue, and bacon and blue cheese. The German slider features a pretzel roll, currently the fastest growing bread variety on restaurant menus. The barbecue-themed slider uses the up-and-coming brioche roll.
- Turkey in a Sleeping Bag—Be creative with breakfast. Try grilled breakfast turkey sausage links wrapped in a large pancake, like a tortilla. Serve with a side of maple syrup.
- Pressato—Artisan olive bread adds flavor and flair to this pressed sandwich featuring turkey ham and turkey bacon.
There are many other popular bread varieties you can add to the menu, including flatbreads, focaccia, ciabatta, potato bread, arepa, bao and wheat pitas. If you’re hesitant about making the change, you can always test various flavors by adding them to your deli options or build-your-own burger menu.
Turkey and artisan breads make a perfect pair. Find recipes and inspiration with our E-Z Menu Ideas and Culinary Center.
SOURCES
Chefs Experiment with Artisan Breads, NRN, April 2014
Rising to the Occasion: The Top 10 Bread Trends, US Foods
Waffle Tacos, Pretzel Buns and Pop Tart Ice Cream Sandwiches: It's What's on the Outside That Counts for Fast Food, Forbes.com, August 2013
