A ll over Japan, delectable breads are abundantly available across various locations. Bakeries, convenience stores, supermarkets, and even train stations, you can effortlessly find a diverse range of mouthwatering options.
As part of our Tokimeki bread series, we would like to provide a brief introduction to some of our featured Japanese breads, given the extensive variety to choose from.
Melon pan メãƒãƒ³ãƒ‘ン(Melon Bread Plain)
Melon bread, characterized by its melon-like appearance, is a delightful sweet bread that consists of a soft, fluffy base covered with a layer of sweet, cookie-like dough. Despite its name, “melon-pan,” it does not possess an actual melon flavor. However, some bread makers enhance its taste or appearance by incorporating melon cream or utilizing green-colored dough to mimic the genuine fruit. The juxtaposition of the soft bun and the crispiness of the sweet cookie crust creates a fascinating texture that combines both tenderness and crunch.
Different convenience stores and bread makers offer their unique variations of melon bread. Some emphasize a crispy texture in their cookie dough, while others focus on achieving a fluffy consistency. Additionally, some may feature whipped cream or melon cream as fillings. Exploring the assortment of melon-pan options and discovering your personal favorite promises an intriguing and enjoyable experience(Japadventure, 2018)
Image Source: Hidamari Cooking
Shio Pan 塩パン (Salt Butter Bread)
Shokupan 食パン (Hokkaido cream bread)
Hokkaido cream bread, also known as Japanese milk bread, is the Japanese variation of sandwich bread or Pullman loaf. What sets this bread apart are its delicate texture and subtle sweetness. With its golden crust on the outside and a cloud-like, fluffy white crumb on the inside, it is the epitome of tenderness and moisture.
Over the years, Japanese bakers have customized the traditional Pullman loaf to cater to the Japanese taste buds. As a result, shokupan boasts a delightful combination of mild sweetness, buttery richness, and a hint of creaminess. This harmonious blend arises from simple ingredients such as white flour, yeast, milk powder, butter, salt, and sugar. Recognizable by its distinctive square or rectangular block shape, shokupan is typically sliced into thick pieces, making it perfect for anything from breakfast toast to Japanese-style sandwiches. Its flavor and texture are exceptionally well-suited for a variety of culinary creations.