20.06.2025

ON SAN JUAN, THE SARDINE SOAKS THE BREAD

The tradition that "on San Juan, the sardine soaks the bread" is a celebration with deep cultural and culinary significance. In various regions, this phrase describes a festivity marked by the crackling of embers and the aroma of grilled sardines, accompanied by bread that's perfect for absorbing the intense flavors of olive oil and sardines. Just like in San Juan barbecues, in the Basque Country, grilled preparations such as sardines or sea bream are paired with rustic breads that enhance the flavors, creating joyful moments around the table.

Within this context, our rustic breads play an essential role. With their crunchy crust and soft, airy crumb, they are designed to soak up the flavors without falling apart. These breads, made using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients, not only complement the culinary ritual but also greatly enhance the overall dining experience.

In addition, rustic bread has a deep connection to cultural traditions. Its careful and meticulous preparation reflects the same dedication given to preserving popular customs, such as the celebration of San Juan. Just like this festivity, rustic bread connects us to our roots and invites us to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

If you’re planning to celebrate San Juan this year, consider including our rustic breads on your table. They won’t just help the sardine “soak the bread” — they’ll elevate it into a culinary masterpiece, perfect for sharing with your loved ones. Because the essence of this tradition lies as much in the flavor as in the act of sharing and celebrating together.

Do you need frozen bread for your business? We can help!

At OKIN, we use a temperature-controlled freezing system that fully respects the product, without using additives or preservatives. This process ensures that our breads maintain their original freshness, flavor, and texture, so that once thawed, you can enjoy bread that tastes freshly baked.​

Discover here our variety of breads and find the one that’s perfect for you!

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"This article was written by Goizane Lizarralde, Head of R&D at Okin."

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OKIN, WHICH MEANS “BAKER” IN BASQUE, IS A FAMILY BUSINESS FOUNDED IN 1994 AND LOCATED IN THE BASQUE COAST OF SPAIN (IN SAN SEBASTIAN). SINCE OUR BEGINNINGS, AND BASED ON THE CLEAN LABEL PHILOSOPHY, WE HAVE BEEN FOCUSED ON PRODUCING BAKE-OFF BREAD, RECOGNISED BOTH FOR ITS QUALITY - LEADERS IN THE RUSTIC SECTOR - AND OUR PROXIMITY TO THE CUSTOMER.

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ARTADI ALIMENTACION S.L.
Pol. Industrial Jose María Korta, parc 5,
20750 ZUMAIA (Gipuzkoa), España
CIF B-20682522,
Tel. +34 943 865 650