Watch The Big Bread Experiment

The Big Bread Experiment is a television series that first aired on BBC Two in the UK. The show is a cookery programme that follows the production of bread by a team of bakers, both professional and amateur, in a bid to find out what makes good bread. Each episode of the show is centred around a specific theme or challenge, such as creating a gluten-free loaf or making a loaf of bread entirely from scratch, without the use of any pre-made ingredients. The different bakers taking part in the show are given the same challenge and are tasked with producing a loaf of bread that meets certain criteria set by an expert panel of judges.

The show is presented by Tom Herbert, a fifth-generation baker and co-founder of The Fabulous Baker Brothers. Tom is joined by a team of experts who are there to share their knowledge and provide guidance to the bakers taking part in the experiment.

Throughout the show, viewers are able to see the different stages involved in the production of bread, from the preparation of the dough to the final product. The bakers taking part in the experiment are interviewed, and viewers are able to learn more about their individual techniques and styles. As the competition progresses, the judges offer their critiques and feedback on the breads produced, and a winner is selected at the end of each episode.

One of the key features of The Big Bread Experiment is its emphasis on the science of baking. The show explores the chemical reactions that occur during bread production, and the different factors that can affect the final result. From hydration levels to fermentation times, viewers are given insight into the many different variables that must be taken into account when baking bread.

Another focus of the show is the celebration of local and traditional breads. Each episode features a different type of bread that is unique to a specific region or culture, such as sourdough from San Francisco or baguettes from France. The bakers taking part in the show are given the opportunity to learn more about these traditional breads and their history, further expanding their knowledge of the craft.

Overall, The Big Bread Experiment is a fascinating dive into the world of bread baking. From the technical aspects of the craft to the cultural significance of different breads, the show offers a unique and informative perspective on one of the world's oldest and most beloved foods. Whether you're an experienced baker or simply enjoy a good loaf of bread, this show is sure to entertain and educate.

The Big Bread Experiment is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between December 5, 2011 and on BBC TWO