Description
A simple and delicious recipe for classic sourdough bread that is easy to master.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for greasing)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover it again and let it rise for another 1-2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F.
- Once the dough has risen again, use a sharp knife to make a few slashes on the top of the loaf.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- For a more flavorful bread, add herbs or spices such as rosemary or garlic powder to the dough during mixing.
- If you prefer a crustier loaf, place a shallow pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg