“The time it takes to make bread is both a beautiful thing and a challenging thing,” writes Allyson Reedy in the foreword of her new cookbook 30 Breads to Bake Before You Die. In her latest release, Reedy captures the essence of the baking experience, reminding us that the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. Making bread by hand is truly worth the wait.
This cookbook is a treasure trove for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned pro nurturing your beloved sourdough starter, “Bread Pitt,” or a novice embarking on your first loafing adventure. With recipes designed for bakers of all skill levels and carb lovers of all appetites, it offers something for everyone. The quickest recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, while others may take up to three days, inviting you to savor the process.
In her quest for carbs, Reedy tried a ton of the best breads in Denver and tapped trusted, world-famous bakers for their recipes. But when it came to bloggers’ recipes, Reedy tested each recipe herself to ensure it was user-friendly. “If I, as an average home cook, can make it well on the first try, then I know it’s a great recipe,” she explains. “While I knew, for example, that I wanted to include Bakery Four and would have taken any recipe Shawn gave me (he ended up sharing his baguette recipe, arguably the toughest one in the book), I had to really sift through the blogs.” After making each bread, Reedy would run her creation next door for her neighbor Vanessa Mir to photograph for the book.
Divided into chapters focusing on everything from hearty loaves and smaller rolls to flatbreads and sweet treats, the cookbook showcases recipes from both local talents and nationally renowned chefs. Experience Denver’s culinary scene with highlights like marble rye sourdough by Zach Martinucci of Rebel Bread, a classic baguette by Shawn Bergin of Bakery Four, English muffins by Caroline Glover of Annette, pita by Alon Shaya of Safta, and the perfect pizza crust from Claire Czarnecki of Pizzeria Alberico. You’ll also find recipes from Dominique Ansel, the famous French pastry chef in New York credited with inventing the cronut; Duff Goldman, the star of Food Network’s Ace of Cakes; and more.
