Concha (bread) facts for kids
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Concha sold in Mexico City
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| Place of origin | Mexico |
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| Associated national cuisine | Mexican cuisine |
A concha (say "KON-chah") is a popular type of Mexican sweet bread. Its name means "shell" in Spanish. This is because the bread looks like a seashell with its round shape and striped top.
A concha has two main parts. First, there's a soft, slightly sweet bread roll. On top of this roll is a crunchy, sugary layer. This topping is usually made from sugar, butter, and flour.
What Makes a Concha Special?
The unique pattern on a concha is made using a special bread stamp. This stamp is pressed onto the topping while the dough is rising, or proofing. Even though the bread and topping are usually the same flavor, the top layer can have different tastes and colors. Common flavors include strawberry, coffee, or chocolate.
Conchas are very popular in bakeries across Mexico and the United States. People often enjoy them with coffee for breakfast. They are also a favorite snack in the afternoon, especially during merienda (a light afternoon meal).
Conchas Become Famous
Conchas have become even more popular thanks to chefs who have added new twists to them. Some chefs started adding fillings or different spices to the traditional concha.
In 2016, conchas became so well-known that a "concha bun burger" even won a special award. It was part of the James Beard Foundation’s Blended Burger Project. This shows how versatile and loved this sweet bread has become!
See also
