Best Sourdough Bread Book

Are you ready to embark on a delightful baking adventure? Sourdough bread is not just a culinary staple; it’s a tradition steeped in flavor and culture. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, making your own sourdough can be a rewarding experience. Today, we’ll explore a simple yet delicious recipe to help you create the perfect loaf of sourdough bread from the comfort of your kitchen.

Beautiful Sourdough Loaf

Let’s start with luxurious sourdough loaf that boasts a crispy crust and a soft, airy interior. The unique tangy flavor of sourdough paired with its chewy texture is something that will surely impress your friends and family!

### Ingredients

• 500 grams of bread flour
• 350 grams of water (room temperature)
• 100 grams of active sourdough starter
• 10 grams of sea salt

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and water. Stir until no dry flour remains. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to one hour. This process is called autolyse, and it helps develop the dough’s gluten.
2. Add the active sourdough starter and sea salt to the dough. Mix it using your hands or a spatula until well incorporated.
3. Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also perform stretch and fold techniques in the bowl if you prefer.
4. Place the kneaded dough back into the bowl and cover it. Let it rise at room temperature for about 4–6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently shape the dough into a round loaf, ensuring to create tension on the surface. Allow it to rest while you prepare for the next step.
6. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside to heat up as well. This step is crucial for achieving that crusty exterior.
7. After resting for about 30–60 minutes, carefully transfer the dough into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover it with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Once baked, remove the loaf from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade sourdough bread as a complement to meals or simply with a drizzle of olive oil. It’s a treat that is sure to bring smiles to the table!

source: www.amazon.ca