Description
This classic sourdough bread with starter is a naturally leavened artisan loaf with a chewy texture, crackly crust, and tangy flavor. Made with simple ingredients and a slow fermentation, it’s perfect for homemade sandwiches, toast, or dipping in soups. Ideal for sourdough lovers seeking a healthy, gut-friendly bread option.
Ingredients
1 cup active sourdough starter
3 1/2 cups bread flour
1 1/4 cups water
2 teaspoons salt
Instructions
1. Mix the bread flour and water in a large bowl until fully hydrated, then let rest for 30 to 45 minutes (autolyse).
2. Add the sourdough starter and salt to the dough and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Let the dough rise at room temperature for 4 to 5 hours, performing stretch and folds every 30 minutes.
4. Turn the dough out, pre-shape into a round, and let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes.
5. Final shape the dough into a boule, place it in a floured proofing basket, and refrigerate overnight.
6. Preheat oven to 475°F with a Dutch oven. Turn the dough onto parchment, score the top, and bake covered for 20 minutes.
7. Remove lid and bake uncovered for another 20 to 25 minutes until deeply golden.
8. Cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Notes
Use a bubbly, active starter for best rise and flavor.
Do not skip the autolyse—it improves dough strength and extensibility.
A Dutch oven helps create the perfect steamy baking environment.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg