Think of a quick snack and the first option that pops into the mind is bread. Whether for breakfast,a picnic or as a chai companion,there’s nothing that can compare to a slice of bread or toast smeared with a delicious spread. Jelly jams and marmalades are now passé. The market abounds with a variety of spreads,from olive walnut to peanut butter,to add some zing to your slice of bread.
Hazelnut Cocoa Spread
Milk,cocoa and hazelnut are mixed together to create a brilliant spread. Dip your spoon into it and relish it as a soufflé or then make an irresistible chocolate sandwich with it. The spread is easily available in the city and is one of the most popular ones. As it sits on the shelf,tempting one with its rich chocolate colour,you will find it hard to not include it in your shopping basket!
Available at: Dorabjee’s,Camp; Godrej Nature’s Basket,Dhole Patil Road. The popular brand is Nutella Ferrero’s Hazelnut – Cocoa Spread. Price: Rs 180 for 350 gms.
Olive Walnut
This one is the perfect spread for the health conscious. Add some hung curd,yellow and red bell pepper and of course olive oil and walnuts to make this lip-smacking spread for your bread. The best part is that it stays fresh for well over a month if refrigerated.
Available at: The Patio,Aundh Price: Rs 60
Tahini Paste
This sesame paste is quite a popular ingredient in Greek and Middle-Eastern cuisine. Catch an Indian version of the paste with an oily base and crushed sesame seeds. This spread too will make the health freaks smile its low score on the calorie-metre makes it all the more delectable. It is available in two varieties brown and white Tahini.
Available at: Dorabjee’s,Camp,Nature’s Basket,DP Road. The popular brand is Dakini’s Tahini Price: Rs 167 for 400 gms
Crunchy Peanut Butter
Elvis Presley’s favourite sandwich is believed to be a concoction of peanut butter,banana and bacon. The crunchy variety of the spread is a great option. Take some multi-grain bread and generously spread this rich paste. The crunchy dry roasted peanuts make it a must-have.
Available at: Most supermarkets. Crunchy Peanut Butter by Planters is our recommendation. Price: Rs 235 for 340 gms
Tangy Tadka
This home-made spread consists of whole grain mustard and milk powder. Its rich consistency reminds one of mayonnaise. Add a bit of yoghurt and a drop of milk,whisk it together and its ready to be served as a delicious spread. Try it as a salad dressing too.
Available at: The Patio,Aundh Price: Rs 60
Blackberry Spread
The blackberry spread will remind you of jams and marmalade. It has a fresh,fruity tinge to it. You can also use it as a topping for biscuits and ice-creams.
Available at: Dorabjee’s,Camp. Opt for the St Dalflour one with other flavours like Blackcurrant,Strawberry,Royal Fig and Orange. Price: Rs 1100
Salmon Cheese Spread
At Godrej’s Nature’s Basket,this spread is literally flying off the shelves. The over-the-counter help says the salmon variety came in only two weeks ago,but has picked up rather well. Salmon’s rich and chewy consistency mixes well with the cheese and gives a well-blended taste.
Available at: Godrej’s Nature’s Basket. The brand to pick is Kraft Philadelphia. Price: Rs 395