How to distinguish between American and Italian breadsticks

How to distinguish between American and Italian breadsticks

There are certain characteristics that differentiate foods that generally belong to the same category. For example, breadsticks vary greatly from one culture to another.  Although some might think all breadsticks are the same, there are actually quite a few differences between American breadsticks and Italian breadsticks.

American breadsticks usually tend to be very doughy, thick and  soft. They are chewy and do not have a crisp or a crunch. They're more bread-like, made to sop up pasta sauces or dip in olive oil. Even at some popular chain Italian restaurants, they may serve an Americanized, softer form of Italian breadsticks.

Authentic Italian breadsticks are much more toasted and firm. You can still taste the freshness, meaning that the toasted taste does not indicate a stale flavor on your taste buds. Italian breadsticks come in long, crunchy pieces; in Italy you will find the breadsticks to be more like a cracker than a piece of bread. While the softer American breadsticks may be sprinkled with ingredients like garlic, sesame seeds, or cheese, Italian breadsticks normally come with these ingredients baked directly into the bread.  Italians tend to use bread for sopping up pasta sauces and breadsticks for a crunchy snack or addition to an antipasto platter.
 
No matter which type of breadstick you choose, both are delicious when dipped in olive oil, eaten the side with your favorite pasta dish, or munched for a mid-afternoon snack.