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Perfect Sourdough Bread Recipe for Beginners

Savor the art of baking with this perfect sourdough bread recipe, designed for beginners. Imagine slicing into a beautifully crusty loaf that reveals an airy, chewy interior—this homemade sourdough is a delightful addition to any meal. Crafted using just four simple ingredients, this artisan loaf boasts a unique tangy flavor thanks to the natural fermentation process. Whether enjoyed as avocado toast, served with olive oil, or transformed into gourmet sandwiches, this versatile bread elevates every dining experience. Join the ranks of enthusiastic home bakers and discover the satisfaction of creating your own delicious sourdough bread.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g all-purpose flour
  • 350ml filtered water
  • 100g active sourdough starter
  • 10g sea salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix flour and water until no dry flour remains; let rest for 30 minutes (autolyse).
  2. Add the active sourdough starter and sea salt; knead gently until combined.
  3. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise at room temperature for about four hours, performing stretch-and-fold techniques every hour.
  4. Once doubled in size, shape the dough into a round loaf and place in a floured proofing basket.
  5. Allow it to rise for another two hours or refrigerate overnight.
  6. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) with a Dutch oven inside. Transfer dough into the heated vessel, cover with a lid, and bake for 30 minutes; remove lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

Keywords: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before use. Experiment with different flours or add herbs for unique flavors. For an extra crispy crust, create steam in your oven during baking by adding water to a pan.