9 Surprising Ways To Use Bread Around the Kitchen (Besides Making Sandwiches)

Most of us think of bread as something to eat—not something to solve kitchen problems.

But for generations, home cooks have used ordinary slices of white bread for everything from rescuing overcooked rice to keeping baked goods fresh.

Many of these tricks cost virtually nothing if you already have bread on hand, and several can help prevent food waste.

Here are a few of our favorites.

1. Rescue Rice That Tastes Burned

If rice scorches on the bottom of the pan, don’t stir the burned portion into the rest.

Instead:

1. Remove the pot from the heat.
2. Lay a slice of white bread over the hot rice.
3. Replace the lid.
4. Let it sit for about five minutes.

The bread can help absorb some of the smoky odor, making the remaining rice taste much better.

2. Absorb Extra Moisture From Rice

Rice that’s a little too wet doesn’t necessarily need more cooking.

Remove the pot from the heat, place a slice of bread over the rice and cover it.

After a few minutes, the bread should absorb much of the excess moisture without overcooking the rice.

3. Soften Stale Marshmallows

If marshmallows have become dry or chewy, don’t throw them away.

Place a couple of slices of fresh bread inside the bag or airtight container with the marshmallows.

Seal it and let it sit for a day or two.

The marshmallows often become soft again as they absorb moisture from the bread.

4. Reduce Cabbage Cooking Odors

Cooking cabbage, Brussels sprouts or similar vegetables can leave lingering odors in the kitchen.

Some home cooks place a slice of white bread on top of the pot’s lid while the vegetables cook.

The bread may absorb some of the escaping moisture and help reduce cooking odors.

While it won’t eliminate every smell, many people find it helps.

5. Reduce Smoke When Broiling

Broiling fatty meats can create smoke as grease drips into the broiler pan.

Placing two or three slices of bread in the drip pan can absorb some of the grease before it begins smoking.

The bread may also reduce grease splatter.

Caution: Always follow your oven manufacturer’s instructions and never allow bread or accumulated grease to become a fire hazard. Monitor food closely whenever broiling.