| San Francisco Bread Review | Parisian Bakeries Authentic Sourdough |
| Home | Reviews | Hit-Parade | Categories | Bakeries | Links | Forum | Contact |
| Summary | |
| Appearance : | Good |
| Taste : | Slightly above average |
| Overall grade : | C+ |
| Pictures | |
 | |
| The bread | |
 | |
| The wrapper | |
 | |
| Ingredients | |
 | |
| Nutrition | |
| Click on the photos for larger view | |
| Bread name | Authentic Sourdough Enriched Bread |
| Baker | Parisian Bakeries, San Francisco |
| Purchased | Monday, May 19, 2003, 5:30PM |
| From | Safeway, 4100 Redwood Rd, Oakland |
| Tested | Monday, May 19, 2003, 6:45PM |
| Price | $2.19 |
| Weight | 9.5 oz. |
| Size (LxWxH) | 12" x 3.5" x 2.5" |
Appearance
The bread comes in a paper bag that does not fully cover the bread -- I find that irritating because it means the bread is not fully protected. Not a big deal, just one of those little annoyances. The loaf looks pretty nice, although a little strange due to the fact that it seems to actually be a half-loaf -- the severed end looks unusual. Deep scores on top, making some very deep ridges. Some flour sprinklings. Good appearance overall. The loaf is of average density, the crust is quite hard (which is good). The outside smell is not very pronounced, I found the bottom smell pleasantly reminiscent of artisan breads. The cut was easy, and making good-looking slices was no problem. The crumb is quite white (which typically means bleached flour), the density of the crumb is about average. The smell of the crumb is typical sourdough.
Taste
The crust's consistency is not bad, and its taste is rather acceptable. However, the crumb is unremarkable. Demerits for the dough conditioner and the enriched flour. I am somewhat disturbed by the fact that they actually advertize their bread as "enriched", therefore suggesting that this is a selling point for some people.
Conclusion
Whenever someone feels it necessary to use the word authentic, one of course wonders why. In this case, the bread is average, and the labeling doesn't change that one iota.