Garlic bread is a popular side dish that is often served alongside Italian cuisine. It is typically made with bread that is flavoured with garlic and other herbs or spices. While garlic bread is now a staple in many Italian-American households, did you know that originally in European countries it was used just as plain-jane toasted bread to dip into garlic-loaded sauces.

Garlic has been used as a flavouring in food for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks and Romans were known to use garlic in their cooking, and it was believed to have medicinal properties. Garlic was also used in ancient Egypt, where it was considered a symbol of strength and was used to treat a variety of ailments.

The origins of garlic bread are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in Italy. The bread used to make garlic bread is typically a baguette or other crusty bread that is sliced and then toasted or grilled. The bread is then rubbed with garlic and drizzled with olive oil or melted butter.

One theory is that it was created in the late 1940s or early 1950s by Italian immigrants living in the United States. These immigrants, who had brought with them their love of bread and garlic, began to experiment with combining the two.

Another theory suggests that garlic bread may have originated in France, where it is known as "pain à l'ail." In France, garlic bread is typically made by rubbing a piece of bread with a clove of garlic and then toasting it. This method of making garlic bread is still popular in France today.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of garlic bread comes from the 14th century Italian cookbook, "Liber de Coquina." The cookbook contains a recipe for a bread called "pane all'aglio," which is flavoured with garlic, parsley, and olive oil. While this recipe is not exactly the same as modern garlic bread, it is clear that the Italians have been flavouring their bread with garlic for centuries.

Regardless of its origin, garlic bread quickly became a popular side dish in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s. It was often served alongside spaghetti and meatballs or other Italian dishes, and soon became a staple in many Italian-American households.

In recent years, garlic bread has become even more popular, and can now be found on the menus of many different types of restaurants around the world. It is also commonly sold as a frozen or pre-made product in grocery stores.

While the basic recipe for garlic bread is simple, there are many variations on the theme. Some recipes call for the bread to be sliced and then spread with a garlic butter mixture, while others call for the bread to be rubbed with garlic and then drizzled with olive oil. Some recipes also call for the addition of other herbs and spices, such as oregano or red pepper flakes.

Garlic bread also pairs well with a variety of different dishes. It can be served alongside pasta dishes, soups, and salads, or used as a base for appetisers such as bruschetta or garlic bread pizza.

If you’re looking to get a taste of authentic Italian garlic bread, you can order it home from Sorrentina. Their garlic breads are freshly made, come in 3 different Italian flavours, and are delivered door-to-door. The breads are made using Italian Baguette, butter, and real Italian flavours. All you need to do is simply pop these into a preheated oven for 4-5 minutes until the butter is bubbling and the bread is golden brown. It works wonders with the kids and the last-minute hosting plans.

Garlic bread is a delicious and versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of Italian dishes. It is also easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a great choice for entertaining. While its exact origins may be shrouded in mystery, garlic bread has become a beloved staple in Italian cuisine and a favourite of Italian food lovers around the world.