What is a simple sourdough bread recipe?

Hey there! If you're looking for a simple sourdough bread recipe, you've come to the right place. I've got a tried and true recipe that will have you baking delicious homemade sourdough bread in no time.

Ingredients:

- 500g bread flour

- 350g water

- 100g active sourdough starter

- 10g salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and water. Mix until all the flour is hydrated and a shaggy dough forms. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This step is called autolyse and helps develop gluten in the dough.

2. After the autolyse, add the active sourdough starter to the dough. Mix it in thoroughly using your hands or a dough scraper.

3. Sprinkle the salt over the dough and continue mixing until it is fully incorporated. The dough will be sticky, but that's normal for sourdough bread.

4. Now it's time to start the bulk fermentation. Cover the bowl again and let the dough rest at room temperature for about 4-6 hours. During this time, the dough will rise and develop its characteristic sourdough flavor.

5. After the bulk fermentation, it's time to shape the dough. Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently fold the edges of the dough towards the center, creating tension on the surface. Flip the dough over and shape it into a round boule.

6. Place the shaped dough into a proofing basket or a bowl lined with a well-floured kitchen towel. Cover it with the towel and let it proof for another 2-3 hours, or until it has visibly risen.

7. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven or a baking stone inside. Once the oven is hot, carefully transfer the proofed dough into the preheated Dutch oven or onto the baking stone. Score the top of the dough with a sharp knife or a razor blade to allow for expansion.

8. Bake the bread covered for 20 minutes, then remove the lid or cover and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

9. Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing. This will allow the crumb to set and prevent it from becoming gummy.

And there you have it, a simple sourdough bread recipe that will impress your family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste of homemade sourdough bread. Happy baking!

Baker Betty

sourdough bread, artisanal baking, fermentation, food photography

Baker Betty is a passionate home baker who has been experimenting with sourdough for over a decade. She loves sharing her knowledge and experience with fellow sourdough enthusiasts.