Hello, Lykkers! The crusty exterior of the bread holds in delicious fillings, making for a fun and interactive meal.

Let’s explore how to make a bread bowl, filling ideas, and tips for serving!

What You Need

For the Bread Bowl:

1 large round loaf (sourdough, ciabatta, or any sturdy bread)

Instructions

1. Select Your Bread

Choose a round loaf that is sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking. Sourdough is particularly popular due to its flavor and texture.

2. Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Carefully cut the top off the loaf to create a lid. Set the lid aside.

Hollow out the inside of the loaf, leaving about an inch of bread around the edges to create a bowl.

3. Toast the Bread Bowl

Place the hollowed-out bread bowl and the lid on a baking sheet. You can brush the interior with olive oil or butter for added flavor.

Bake for about 10-15 minutes, until the bread is lightly toasted and crusty.

Filling Ideas

1. Classic Soup

Chowder: New England clam chowder or corn chowder work beautifully in bread bowls.

Tomato Soup: A creamy tomato basil soup pairs perfectly with the crusty bread.

2. Stews

Stew: Hearty stew with vegetables makes for a filling and satisfying meal.

Vegetable Stew: A rich vegetable or lentil stew is perfect for a vegetarian option.

3. Dips

Spinach Artichoke Dip: A warm, cheesy dip is a crowd-pleaser.

Buffalo Chicken Dip: Spicy buffalo chicken dip is great for parties.

4. Salads

Caesar Salad: Serve a classic Caesar salad inside the bread bowl for a fresh twist.

Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can also be a fun filling option.

Serving Suggestions

Accompaniments: Serve extra bread pieces from the top and hollowed-out bread alongside to scoop up fillings.

Garnish: Top your filling with fresh herbs or cheese for added flavor and presentation.

Variety: Consider offering multiple types of bread bowls with different fillings for a fun tasting experience.

Bread bowls are a versatile and enjoyable way to serve a variety of dishes. Their edible nature adds a unique element to dining, inviting everyone to dig in. Whether for a cozy dinner or a party, bread bowls are sure to impress!