The Slash

A post-script to my Raisin Pecan Bread...

A lame (pronounced lam) is a double sided blade mounted to a holder. It's used for slashing dough before baking. Slashing is more than decorative. It gives steam a place to escape as the loaf bakes. Try baking a loaf without slashing and you'll produce a nicely rounded loaf with a giant air bubble inside.

Another trick: If your loaf tears or pulls as you drag the blade through, try wetting it with cool water first.