Sourdough bread, with its distinctive tang and chewy texture, is a testament to the art of traditional bread making. This loaf, with a crusty exterior and tender crumb, is the result of patience and simple, natural ingredients fermenting together to create something truly special.
Sourdough Bread Recipe:
Prep Time: 12 to 24 hours (for the starter to become active) Cook Time: 35 to 40 minutes Total Time: About 25 hours (including resting and proofing) Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients:
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the active sourdough starter with warm water.
- Add the flour and salt, combining until a rough dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a clean, oiled bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise until doubled in size, which can take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours depending on the temperature and the activity of your starter.
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and shape it into a round loaf.
- Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, dust with flour, and cover with a damp cloth. Let it proof for another 1 to 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a baking stone, place it in the oven to heat up. If not, a baking tray will work as well.
- Right before your bread goes into the oven, make a shallow slash across the top with a sharp knife.
- Place the bread in the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, until the crust is deeply golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing.
Sourdough bread is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The slow fermentation process develops complex flavors that are not just delicious but also deeply satisfying to achieve. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at sourdough for the first time, the result is a bread that’s a pleasure to share and enjoy in countless meals.