Everyone loves bread. The aroma, flavor and texture are irresistible.

According to the Bread Bakers Guild of America, artisan bread baking is on the increase and the number of small bakeries specializing in fine breads is growing.

Just a few short years ago, when many of us were watching our carbs intake, it was conceivable that the bread industry could have been facing its demise. But along with our greater understanding of how good carbs (complex carbs) are digested and utilized by our bodies, came the rise in demand for better bread.

In gourmet bakeries, and even supermarkets, more and more shoppers are opting for breads that don’t say ‘wonder’ or contain any preservatives. As the low carb diet craze fades, the type of bread people are choosing are nutritional, whole grain and specialty offerings instead of white bread.

Artisan bread baking is a practice that tries to recapture the fine tastes and textures of traditionally baked bread. Made and shaped by hand, it often contains very few ingredients: flour, water, salt and yeast. Recognized by its irregular shape, crispy crust and stronger flavor, it’s remarkable to discover how many types of bread can be made with so very few ingredients. These slow foods, kneaded by hand, given the proper time to rise, and baked in a stone or brick oven are being rediscovered and savored. No longer thought of as part of French or Italian culture, these hearty and healthy breads are going mainstream American.

Artisan bread comes with a higher price tag than most popular supermarket brands. But even supermarkets now offer a variety of fresher breads at a price most of us can afford. Baked either on premise or contracted from local bakeries, shoppers can find a large variety of whole grains, ethnic breads and sandwich rolls. These products are a great compromise for those seeking higher quality, better nutrition and greater flavor than pre-packaged, factory-made products.

Of course, you can always opt to bake it yourself. It’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon in winter. Paired with a delicious soup, your homemade bread will warm the hearts and bellies of your loved ones.