Use it up - bread

Find yourself throwing away bread all too often? Here’s how to use up leftover bread to make it go further. 

1. Whip up fancy toasts 

For the ultimate soup topper, spread toasted bread with blue cheese. See how it’s done with our recipe for French Onion Soup with Blue Cheese Croûtes.

2. Make a sweet dessert 

What’s the secret to making bread and butter pudding? Day-old bread – the drier consistency soaks up custard better than fresh bread does. Try our classic Lemon Curd and Blackberry Brioche Pudding, or give our Mini Cinnamon Toast Bread and Butter Puddings a go.

3. Blitz it up 

Stale bread is perfect for making breadcrumbs. Blitz it in a food processor until fine crumbs form, then place in sealable bags. Combine the breadcrumbs with mince to make meatballs, or stir in some finely grated parmesan to sprinkle over pasta bakes. You can also freeze the breadcrumbs for up to 2 months. 

4. Give it new life 

To freshen up stale bread, run it under water briefly (it should be damp, not soaked). Bake at 160°C for 10 mins or until the water evaporates. Serve with soups, or top with your favourite spread.

5. Freeze it 

Bread is usually best eaten within 2-3 days. If you know you won’t get through it in time, freeze some (or all!) in a sealable bag for up to 3 months. To defrost, thaw overnight in the fridge. 

6. Waste Wise

Looking for even more ideas to help reduce food waste in your kitchen? Coles Zero Waste Chef recipes are an easy way to use up leftovers and get the most out of what you have at home.