The Best Homemade Sourdough Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Homemade sourdough is simple, fun, and oh-so-rewarding. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner! It’s made with just flour, water, salt, and your trusty sourdough starter, no fancy ingredients needed. The process lets you take your time, making it perfect for baking at your own pace. Plus, the smell of fresh bread filling your kitchen is unbeatable!
Recipe
Sourdough bread is a delicious, naturally leavened bread with a tangy flavor and chewy texture. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it relies on a sourdough starter for fermentation, giving it a unique taste and airy crumb.
Ingredients:
- 100g active sourdough starter
- 350g warm water
- 500g bread flour
- 10g salt
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter and warm water until dissolved.
- Add the bread flour and salt, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover and let rest for 30 minutes (autolyse).
- Perform a series of stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes for 2 hours.
- Cover and let the dough bulk ferment at room temperature for 4–6 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into a round or oval and place it seam-side up in a floured banneton or bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours) for a cold proof.
- Preheat a Dutch oven in a 450°F (230°C) oven for 30 minutes.
- Transfer the dough to the hot Dutch oven, score the top, and bake covered for 20 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for another 20–25 minutes until deep golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Notes:
- Verify the starter is active and bubbly before use.
- Adjust fermentation time based on room temperature.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Dutch oven
- Banneton or proofing bowl
- Bench scraper
Time:
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 18–24 hours (including fermentation)
Cuisine: Bread
Serving: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
Nutrition
Sourdough bread is a nutritious option, packed with essential nutrients. Here’s the breakdown per serving (1 slice, approximately 50g).
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade sourdough with savory spreads like creamy avocado or garlic herb butter for a satisfying bite. If I’m craving something sweet, I’ll top it with honey, fresh berries, or a dollop of jam for a simple treat. Both ways, it’s all about making the bread shine!
Savory Spreads Pairings
When you’ve got a freshly baked loaf of sourdough, it’s hard not to dive right in, but pairing it with the right savory spreads can take it to the next level. I love starting with creamy cheese dips, like a tangy goat cheese or a sharp cheddar blend—they melt beautifully into warm slices. Herb spreads are another favorite of mine; think pesto, chive cream cheese, or a zesty parsley and garlic blend. They add a fresh, vibrant kick that complements the bread’s tanginess. These spreads are simple to make and turn a slice of sourdough into something truly special.
Sweet Toppings Ideas
After enjoying your sourdough with savory spreads, why not switch things up and try something sweet? I love pairing my warm sourdough with fruit compotes—strawberry, peach, or berry blends work wonders. They’re tangy, fruity, and add a burst of flavor. A simple honey drizzle is another favorite of mine; it’s sweet, smooth, and pairs perfectly with the bread’s natural tang. Sometimes, I’ll mix both for a double dose of sweetness. It’s like turning breakfast or snack time into a mini dessert. Trust me, once you try these combos, you’ll keep coming back for more!
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