Pullman loaf

Pullman Loaf

A typical Pullman loaf

The Pullman loaf is a type of bread known for its rectangular shape and fine crumb. It is baked in a special pan called a Pullman pan, which has a lid that slides on top to create a perfectly square loaf. This bread is often used for sandwiches and toast due to its uniform shape and soft texture.

History

The Pullman loaf is named after the Pullman Company, which was known for its railroad sleeping cars. The compact shape of the loaf made it ideal for storage in the limited space of a train's kitchen. The Pullman Company popularized this type of bread in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Characteristics

The Pullman loaf is characterized by its:

• Shape: A perfect rectangle with flat sides and a flat top, achieved by baking in a lidded pan.
• Crumb: Fine and even, making it ideal for slicing.
• Crust: Thin and soft, due to the enclosed baking environment.

Baking Process

The process of making a Pullman loaf involves:

1. Dough Preparation: The dough is typically enriched with milk, butter, and sometimes sugar, which contributes to its soft texture. 2. Proofing: The dough is allowed to rise until it doubles in size. 3. Shaping: The dough is shaped into a log and placed into the Pullman pan. 4. Baking: The pan is covered with its lid and baked, resulting in a loaf with a uniform shape.

Uses

The Pullman loaf is versatile and used in various culinary applications, including:

• Sandwiches: Its uniform slices make it ideal for club sandwiches and other layered sandwiches.
• Toast: The fine crumb and soft texture make it perfect for toasting.
• French Toast: The bread's ability to absorb liquids makes it a popular choice for French toast.

Related Pages

• Bread
• Sandwich
• Toast
• French toast