What Bread to Serve with Gumbo – 15+ Incredible Side Dishes

There’s nothing quite like a steamy bowl of gumbo on a cold winter day. But what breads to serve with it? Some people say that you should serve French bread with gumbo, while others insist that cornbread is the only way to go. I’ve tried both, and I have to say that I’m a fan of both options.

But one night, while I was making gumbo, something struck me. I was trying to decide what breads to serve with gumbo, and I just couldn’t make up my mind. I mean, I’ve had enough of the classics, so I started searching for something a little more adventurous.

And that is when I decided to try various combinations of bread with gumbo to see which one complements its flavors perfectly!

List of Breads to serve with gumbo

1. Irish soda bread
2. Naan bread
3. Breadsticks
4. Ciabatta bread
5. Olive bread
6. Rye bread
7. Pretzels
8. Sourdough
9. Brioche loaf
10. Biscuits
11. Garlic bread
12. Cornbread
13. Baguettes
14. French bread
15. Challah

Irish soda bread

Irish soda bread is quite popular in Ireland. It is made with baking soda, flour, salt, and buttermilk, while some recipes also include raisins or caraway seeds. Traditionally baked in a round loaf, it has a dense, slightly crumbly texture. The crust is usually dark brown, and the inside of the loaf is light and fluffy.

This type of bread makes an excellent side dish for gumbo, as the rich, savory flavors of the gumbo are complemented by the subtly sweet taste of the soda bread. The dense texture of the bread also helps to soak up the gravy-like consistency of the gumbo. For a truly authentic Irish experience, serve Irish soda bread alongside your gumbo. Bon appetite!

Naan bread

Naan bread is a type of flatbread that originates from India. It’s made with flour, water, yeast, and salt, and it’s traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven. With a soft and fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of gumbo, it’s easy to make ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to serve. So next time you’re making gumbo, give naan bread a try!

Breadsticks

Breadsticks are a type of long and thin bread. They are usually made with wheat flour, water, olive oil, salt, and sugar. Originally originated in Italy, they were made without yeast, which was later added to the dough to make them lighter and more easily digestible.

They are commonly served as a side dish to soup or gumbo, while they can also be dipped in olive oil or garlic butter, making them a delicious and versatile side dish that can add a touch of elegance to any meal.

Ciabatta bread

Ciabatta bread is a versatile side dish that can add a touch of elegance to any meal. The bread is light and airy, with a slightly chewy texture that soaks up flavors well. This makes it an ideal companion for rich and hearty dishes like gumbo.

To serve the bread, simply slice it into thin pieces and toast it lightly in the oven. Then, ladle your gumbo into bowls and top with a piece of toasted ciabatta bread. The bread will absorb all of the delicious flavors of the gumbo, making each bite even more savory.

You can also experiment with other toppings, such as grated parmesan cheese or chopped green onions. Either way, ciabatta bread is an easy way to take your gumbo to the next level.

Olive bread

One of our favorite ways to enjoy gumbo is to serve it with a slice of olive bread. The rich, savory flavor of the olive bread pairs perfectly with the gumbo, and it helps to soak up all of the deliciousness of the dish.

Plus, olive bread is hearty enough to stand up to the gumbo, so you don’t have to worry about it getting soggy. Whether you’re serving gumbo for a special occasion or just for a weeknight meal, we hope you’ll give this pairing a try.

Rye bread

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty gumbo side dish, then you need to try it with rye bread. The combination of the two is simply unbeatable. The rye bread adds a slight sweetness to the gumbo that perfectly offsets the spiciness of the dish.

Not to mention, the rye bread soaks up all the delicious flavors of the gumbo, making it even more irresistible. So if you’re looking for a unique and flavor-packed side dish for your next gumbo, then be sure to give rye bread a try. You won’t be disappointed.

Pretzels

To add a unique twist to your gumbo, try serving it with pretzels as a side dish. The salty flavor of the pretzels pairs well with the richness of the gumbo, and the doughy texture provides a contrast to the stew’s hearty ingredients.

Plus, pretzels are easy to make at home, so you can customize them to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a traditional gumbo recipe or something new to try, pretzels make an excellent addition to this classic dish.

Sourdough

Sourdough is a type of bread that is made by fermenting dough using a starter culture. It is often used as a side dish for gumbo, as it pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup. It is also a healthy choice, as it is high in fiber and low in calories.

However, there are some things to keep in mind when using sourdough as a side dish for gumbo. First, it is important to make sure that the bread is fully cooked before adding it to the soup. If it is not cooked all the way through, it will become soggy and fall apart.

Second, it is best to choose a sourdough that has a light and airy texture. This will help to prevent the soup from becoming too dense. Finally, while sourdough pairs well with gumbo, it can also be enjoyed on its own. Simply slice the bread and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.

Brioche loaf

Brioche loaf is a delicious and nutritious side dish that can be enjoyed with gumbo. It is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for those looking to boost their health. Also it is high in fiber, which can help to regulate digestion. When paired with gumbo, the two dishes create a balanced meal that is sure to please.

Be sure to pair the brioche loaf with the right gumbo recipe. For instance, if you are making a spicy gumbo, be sure to choose a brioche loaf that is not too sweet. Moreover, be sure to cook the brioche loaf thoroughly before serving. Otherwise, the bread will quickly become soggy and unappetizing.

Biscuits

Biscuits are a Southern classic, and they make a delicious side dish that is also easy to make and can be served with a variety of toppings, such as butter, honey, or jam. In addition to being delicious, biscuits are also nutritious. They are a good source of fiber, and they contain vitamins and minerals that are essential for health.

The only downside to biscuits is that they are high in calories, so they should be enjoyed in moderation. When served as a side dish for gumbo, biscuits can help to round out the meal and make it more filling. For the best results, pair biscuits with a light gumbo that is not too spicy. This will allow the flavors of the biscuit to shine through.

Garlic bread

Garlic bread is a delicious and versatile side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of different cuisines. While it is commonly served with Italian dishes, garlic bread also pairs well with gumbo. The bold flavors of garlic bread complement the rich and savory flavors of gumbo, making it an ideal side dish.

In addition to its great taste, garlic bread is also packed with health benefits. Garlic is known for its ability to boost the immune system and fight off infection, making it a great choice for those looking to stay healthy.

For best results, choose a loaf of fresh, crusty bread and slice it thickly. Spread a generous amount of butter or margarine on each slice, then top with minced garlic and shredded cheese. Bake in a preheated oven until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. Enjoy!

Cornbread

Cornbread is a delicious and versatile side dish that pairs well with gumbo. It is made from cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, eggs, and milk. The batter is then baked in a pan until it is golden brown. The cornmeal gives the bread a slight sweetness, while the baking powder makes it light and fluffy.

I like to serve cornbread with gumbo because the two dishes complement each other perfectly. The rich, savory flavors of the gumbo are offset by the sweetness of the cornbread, and the cornbread helps to soak up all of the delicious gravy, making it a healthy and tasty side dish that will make your gumbo even more enjoyable.

Baguettes

A crusty, chewy baguette is the perfect foil for a bowl of rich gumbo. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of whole grains. Baguettes are also packed with fiber, which can help to regulate digestion. So next time you’re making gumbo, go for a baguette as a side dish. Your taste buds will thank you.

French bread

French bread is a type of crusty bread that is made from wheat flour, water, yeast, and salt. It is usually shaped into a loaf and has a thin, crispy crust. It is a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of different dishes, including gumbo, as the two dishes pair well together because the rich and savory flavors of the gumbo are balanced by the sweetness and lightness of the French bread.

Challah

The best bread to serve with gumbo is challah. Challah is a traditional Jewish bread that is made from wheat flour, eggs, sugar, oil, water, and yeast. It has a rich and buttery flavor, and a soft and fluffy texture. The dough is braided into a loaf, which gives it a distinctive look.

It is perfect for serving with gumbo because its flavor and texture complement the flavors and textures of the gumbo perfectly. Additionally, challah is a good source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for those looking for a filling side dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make gumbo?

Gumbo is a very hearty dish, and it can take quite a while to make. There are many different recipes for gumbo, so be sure to consult one before you get started. In general, however, you’ll want to start by cooking the meat and vegetables in a large pot.

Once everything is cooked through, you’ll add the stock and roux and let it simmer for a while. Finally, you’ll add the shrimp or other seafood and let it cook until it’s just done. So, depending on the recipe you use, gumbo can take anywhere from an hour and a half to three hours to make.

What is the best way to thicken gumbo?

There are a few different ways to thicken gumbo. One popular option is to use okra, which helps to create a thick and creamy sauce. You can also add roux, which is made from flour and oil or butter.

Alternatively, you can add some cornstarch slurry to the gumbo. This involves dissolving cornstarch in a little water, then adding it to the pot. Whichever method you choose, be sure to stir constantly so that the gravy doesn’t scorch the bottom of the pot.

Conclusion

By now, you must’ve been obvious of the fact that there are many different types of bread that can be served with gumbo. In this article, I’ve discussed some of my favorite options for what bread to serve with gumbo. I hope you’ve found this information helpful and that you’ll try out some of these side dishes the next time you make gumbo!