There are plenty of things you can do to enhance the flavors of a classic tomato sandwich, whether with fresh tomatoes or a new brand of umami-packed mayonnaise. However, one thing we might not think to do right away is adding flavor to bread. Although the best type of bread for a tomato sandwich is long-lasting white bread, if you’re looking to experiment and add an extra level of flavor to your tomato sandwich, bread relish is a great place to start.
There are two ways you can add flavor to a tomato sandwich through bread. The first and simplest way is to look for bread that is already flavored. Think artisan sourdough loaves baked with olives and rosemary, wheat bread baked with stout and apples, cheddar beer bread, pesto-filled focaccia bread, or even something sweeter like brioche bread or challah bread.
The downside to this method is that you are limited to the flavors of the bread. Although bread may be great, it doesn’t really provide a blank canvas on which to paint a delicious picture. To do this, you will need to consider frying the bread in spice-infused oil.
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Toast bread in spice-infused oil
Think of this as your invitation to experiment with flavors. Dipping bread in oil infused with herbs and spices is nothing new. However, this method takes those flavors to the max. When the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the good taste of mayonnaise are combined, magical things can happen.
For this method, you will need a classic white cloth of white bread. This can be the traditional spongy type, which will absorb all the oil and flavors right into the bread, or the firm white sourdough, which will take on the flavors and add some complexity with its natural texture. For spices and herbs, you can really go to town. Curry powder, chili powder, basil, dill, thyme, rosemary, coriander, parsley, oregano, chives, paprika, fennel seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, red pepper flakes, or any other spices that make tomatoes sing all the way. Great options. Dried, pre-packaged herbs and spices work best because they provide plenty of flavor and won’t wilt from the heat of the pan.
To marinate bread, simply distribute your chosen herbs or spices evenly throughout the oil in a hot pan, then toast the bread. It will take on color, as well as absorb the aroma and flavors of the flavors in question. This will translate to your sandwich, giving you an elevated tomato sandwich that is sure to please.
Read the original article on Tasting Table.