Are you craving the warm and delightful experience of enjoying a delicious soup or stew in a bread bowl? Look no further! While popular places like Panera and Au Bon Pain might come to mind, there are plenty of other lesser-known spots where you can find these culinary gems. Whether it’s for your next dinner party or simply because you’re in the mood for something special, here are a few tips to help you choose and buy the perfect bread bowl.

What are Bread Bowls?

Also known as bread rolls or buns, bread bowls are a type of food made from dough that is shaped into a bowl and then filled with a variety of delicious fillings. From soups and chilis to mac and cheese, these warm and satisfying dishes are popular among college students and busy professionals alike.

What are Bread Bowls Used for?

Bread bowls are commonly used to serve thick and hearty dishes like chili and New England-style clam chowder. However, it’s important to note that they are not suitable for soups with thinner bases, as the broth can make the bread too soggy too quickly.

Pros and Cons of Using Bread Bowls

Using bread bowls has its advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, they make for an impressive presentation and can be filled with a variety of delicious recipes. They are also more budget-friendly compared to buying separate plates or dishes. However, the cons include the fact that they don’t keep food as warm as ceramic or porcelain dishes and can become soggy if left for too long.

Where to Buy Bread Bowls?

Store Type
Name Grocery Store, Bakery, Specialty Food Store, Farmers Market, Online Retailer
Physical Location (Address, City, State/Province, Country)
Online Store URL (URL of online store)
Delivery Options (Yes/No)
Shipping Cost (Cost, if applicable)
Minimum Order (Value, if applicable)
Bread Bowl
Type Sourdough, French, Italian, Multigrain, Gluten-Free, Vegan
Size Small, Medium, Large
Price (Price per bowl)
Additional Toppings (Cheese, herbs, spices, etc.)
Pre-Made or Make-Your-Own (Option available)
Reviews (Rating, link to review site)

Now, let’s get to the exciting part – where to buy bread bowls! If you’re looking for a nearby location, chances are you live close to popular restaurants and eateries that serve them. Here are a few places you can check out:

  1. Panera Bread: Known for their quick and convenient meals, Panera offers a variety of tasty soups and salads in a bread bowl.
  2. Au Bon Pain: Another great option for a quick bite, Au Bon Pain offers hearty soups and other delectable items in their signature bread bowls.
  3. Subways: Believe it or not, Subway has been offering bread bowls for years. Visit your local Subway and see if they have them on the menu.
  4. Grocery Stores: Many grocery stores now offer pre-made bread bowls in their bakery sections. They provide a quick and easy lunch option without compromising on flavor.

But wait, there’s more! Here are a few hidden gems in different locations that you might want to try:

  • Peasant’s Pantry in Portland, Oregon offers fresh baked bread bowls filled with soups and stews made from locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss their popular clam chowder bread bowl.
  • The Bread Bowl in New York City serves up traditional soup and chili, as well as Mediterranean-inspired options like hummus and falafel in their freshly baked sourdough bread bowls.
  • The Big Bread Company in San Francisco offers a wide selection of bread bowls, from savory options like mac and cheese to sweet options like cinnamon apple crumble.
  • Old World Breads in Chicago has a rotating selection of bread bowls filled with everything from Italian wedding soup to chicken pot pie. Their signature bread bowl, the “kitchen sink,” is a mix of all their daily soup offerings.

No matter where you decide to buy your bread bowl, it’s sure to be a memorable and enjoyable meal for everyone.

Tips for Choosing the Right Type of Bread Bowl

Once you’ve found the perfect place to buy your bread bowl, here are a few tips to help you choose the right type:

  • Consider the flavor and texture of the dish you’ll be serving in the bread bowl. Crusty sourdough or rustic Italian bread pairs well with savory soups and stews, while sweeter bread like Hawaiian rolls is great for fruit salad or dessert dips.
  • Take the size of the bread bowl into account. Make sure it’s large enough to hold your desired serving size but not too big that it overwhelms the dish.
  • If you have dietary restrictions, choose a bread that fits within those guidelines, such as gluten-free bread for those with gluten intolerance.
  • Opt for fresh and high-quality bread. This not only ensures a tastier bread bowl but also helps it hold up better when filled with hot liquid. Avoid pre-packaged and processed breads if possible.

How to Make Bread Bowls at Home?

If you can’t find where to buy bread bowls or there are no stores selling them in your area, fear not! You can easily make your own bread bowls at home. It’s surprisingly simple, and all you need are basic ingredients and a few kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Bread dough (homemade or store-bought)
  • Olive oil or butter
  • Large baking sheet
  • Rolling pin
  • Bowl scraper or sharp knife
  • Filling of your choice

Once you have everything ready, follow these steps to make your own delicious bread bowls:

  1. Mix together the dough ingredients to create a thick, yet soft and slightly sticky dough.
  2. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl.
  3. Let the dough rise for 90 minutes in a warm environment.
  4. Punch down the dough and cut it into six pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on baking sheets (three per sheet).
  5. Brush the tops with an egg wash and use a sharp knife to score an X on top of each dough ball.
  6. Bake for 30 minutes.
  7. Once the bread bowls have cooled enough to handle, cut a large round out of the top of each bowl, scoop out the center, and fill it with your favorite soup or stew.

Making bread bowls at home not only adds a unique twist to your meal but also ensures that everyone gets their own individual portion. So next time you’re craving something special or can’t find where to buy bread bowls, give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness of your very own homemade bread bowl.

How to Store and Reheat Bread Bowls?

If you have some leftover bread bowls or want to prepare them in advance, here’s how to store and reheat them:

  • Bread bowls can be stored for up to three days in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as it can dry out the bread faster.
  • To reheat, preheat your oven to 400°F and place the bread bowls on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-10 minutes until they are warm and crusty. Once heated, fill them with soup or stew and serve.

Recipes That Go Great with a Freshly-Baked Bread Bowl

Now that you have your bread bowl ready, it’s time to explore the wonderful recipes that pair perfectly with it. From hearty stews and chilis to refreshing salads and even desserts, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few of my favorite recipes:

  1. Broccoli Cheese Soup and Corn and Cheese Chowder: These creamy and flavorful soups are perfect for a comforting meal in a bread bowl.
  2. Spinach Dip: Spoon this delicious dip into mini bread rolls for bite-sized portions.
  3. Cajun Clam Chowder: A hearty and spiced-up chowder with bacon, andouille sausage, potatoes, and veggies.
  4. Garlic Butter Baked Brie: Creamy brie baked in a sourdough loaf, with pieces of bread from the center serving as croutons for dipping.
  5. Italian Breakfast Bowl: An omelette baked inside a bread bowl, packed with eggs, sausage, cheese, and bell peppers.
  6. Ranch Greek Yogurt Dip: Serve this flavorful dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl, accompanied by vegetables or chunks of bread for dipping.
  7. Apple Pie in Bread Bowl: A sweet treat filled with juicy apples and topped with a sugary crust.
  8. Hot Cajun Fish Dip: A spicy dip made with red snapper, Creole seasoning, and melted monterey jack cheese.
  9. Easy Tostada Bowl Salad: Layer tortillas to create a delicious salad bowl.

Conclusion: Where to Buy Bread Bowls?

Now that you know where to buy bread bowls and how to make them at home, you can indulge in this delightful culinary experience whenever you please. Bread bowls are a fantastic way to serve soups, stews, dips, and even salads. Whether you purchase them from a bakery or create your own at home, make sure to choose flavorful and high-quality bread. And remember, any leftover bread can be repurposed in other delicious meals. So go ahead, enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of a bread bowl today!

FAQ: Bread Bowls

  • What type of bread do you use for bread bowls?
    Bread bowls can be made from any crusty type of bread, but the best option is a round crusty loaf of artisanal or sourdough bread. Baguettes might be harder to enjoy with soup in a bread bowl.
  • Can bread bowls be made in a bread machine?
    Absolutely! You can use your bread machine to create the dough for bread bowls. They are perfect for serving chili, chowder, or creamy dips.
  • What bread is Panera bread bowl?
    Panera’s bread bowl is made from artisan sourdough bread with a crunchy crust and a chewy center. It pairs perfectly with their soups, such as creamy tomato and broccoli cheddar.
  • What is the point of a bread bowl?
    Bread bowls are a creative and enjoyable way to serve a variety of foods, including chowders, bisques, chili, and creamy dips. They add an extra layer of flavor and fun to your meal.
  • What is a Domino’s bread bowl?
    Domino’s bread bowl is a culinary delight made with hand-tossed crust and a flavorful garlic oil blend that includes parmesan cheese, salt, and parsley.
  • How do you eat a bread bowl?
    Eating a bread bowl is simple! Use a spoon to enjoy the soup, chili, or chowder inside, and feel free to tear apart and enjoy the bread as you go.
  • Where do bread bowls come from?
    The concept of bread bowls originated in 15th century Ireland. A British duke was served soup in a loaf of bread by an Irish nobleman, which inspired the opening of shops serving bread bowls in Dublin.
  • When did bread bowls become popular?
    Bread bowls have been part of cuisine since 1427, but they experienced a major resurgence in the 1980s, thanks to San Francisco restaurants using sourdough bread and clam chowder.
  • What are the three basic types of bowl?
    The three basic types of bowls are soup bowls, finger bowls, and ramekins.
  • How do you eat out of a bread bowl?
    Eating a bread bowl is easy! Use a spoon to enjoy the soup, chili, or chowder inside, and savor the bread on its own by cutting or tearing it apart.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to embark on your bread bowl adventure. Enjoy!

Albion Morrison

Albion Morrison Founder : Earl’s Grocery is a sandwich restaurant that serves up Earl’s Real food. The atmosphere is comfortable and contemporary, making it the perfect place to enjoy a great meal.
Address: EARL’S GROCERY, 1609 ELIZABETH AVE, CHARLOTTE, NC 28204. Tel: (704) 333-2757
Email: INFO@EARLSGROCERY.COM