The phrase "unleavened bread" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription /ʌnˈlɛvənd brɛd/. The first syllable, "un," is pronounced as "uh-n." The second syllable, "leavened," is pronounced with a short "e" sound followed by "v," "n," and "d" sounds. The final syllable, "bread," is pronounced as "brɛd." This word is commonly used to describe bread made without yeast or other leavening agents and is often associated with religious traditions such as Passover.
Unleavened bread refers to a type of bread that is made without the use of leavening agents, such as yeast or baking powder. It is traditionally prepared by combining flour and water, along with other ingredients like salt or oil, and then baking it without allowing the dough to rise. The absence of leavening agents in unleavened bread results in a denser and flatter texture compared to leavened bread.
Unleavened bread holds significant cultural and religious significance in various societies and religious traditions. For example, in Jewish culture, unleavened bread, known as matzo, plays a central role during the Passover celebration. It is consumed to commemorate the biblical event of the Israelites' hasty departure from Egypt, where they did not have enough time for the bread to rise. Furthermore, during the Christian festival of Easter, unleavened bread may also be used to represent the body of Christ during certain religious ceremonies.
Beyond its religious associations, unleavened bread also offers practical advantages. It has a longer shelf life than leavened bread due to its lower moisture content, making it resistant to mold and spoilage. Additionally, it can be prepared relatively quickly, as the dough does not require proofing or rising time. Unleavened bread is often used in various cuisines worldwide, such as flatbreads like tortillas, chapatis, or lavash, which are commonly enjoyed as a staple food.
The word "unleavened" is derived from the Old English "unlēaf", which consists of "un-" (meaning "not") and "lēaven" (meaning "ferment"). "Bread" traces its origins back to the Old English "brēad", which is related to the Old High German "brōt" and the Dutch "brood". The term "unleavened bread" specifically refers to bread made without the addition of leavening agents like yeast, resulting in a denser and more compact texture. It also holds significance in various religious contexts, particularly in relation to Passover and the Last Supper in Jewish and Christian traditions, respectively.