Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe – Perfect Homemade Loaf

What You’ll Love About Sourdough Bread Recipe

Making sourdough bread recipe at home is easier than you think, and the results are so rewarding. You’ll love the crispy crust, chewy interior, and that unmistakable tangy flavor.

• Simple ingredients: Just flour, water, salt, and your trusty sourdough starter—no fancy additives needed.
• Hands-on fun: Kneading and shaping the dough is oddly satisfying, like playing with edible playdough.
• Bragging rights: Nothing beats the pride of pulling a golden, bubbly loaf from your own oven.

Recipe

Sourdough bread recipe is a classic, rustic loaf with a tangy flavor and a chewy crust. It relies on a sourdough starter for leavening, making it a natural, slow-fermented bread that’s both nutritious and delicious. This recipe guides you through the process of making your own sourdough bread recipe from scratch, perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Ingredients:

• 500g bread flour
• 350g water
• 100g active sourdough starter
• 10g salt

Instructions:

1. Mix the flour and water in a large bowl until no dry flour remains. Cover and let rest (autolyse) for 30 minutes.
2. Add the sourdough starter and salt to the dough. Mix until well combined.
3. Perform a series of stretch and folds every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours to develop gluten.
4. Let the dough ferment at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf and place it in a floured proofing basket. Cover and refrigerate overnight (12-16 hours).
6. Preheat a Dutch oven in your oven at 450°F (230°C) for 30 minutes.
7. Score the dough with a sharp knife or razor blade, then transfer it to the hot Dutch oven.
8. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown.
9. Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes:

• Confirm your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using it.
• Adjust fermentation time based on room temperature; warmer environments speed up fermentation.
• For a crispier crust, spritz the dough with water before baking.

Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Resting/Proofing Time: 16-20 hours
• Serving: 1 loaf

Nutrition

Sourdough bread is a nutritious option for those looking for a wholesome, fermented bread. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per slice (approximately 64g):

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my sourdough bread recipe with a warm bowl of soup, like tomato basil or creamy potato, because it’s perfect for dipping. A slice topped with sharp cheddar or creamy brie makes a simple yet satisfying snack, too. These combos always make me feel like I’ve created a cozy, restaurant-worthy meal at home.

Complementary Soups

Nothing pairs better with a warm slice of sourdough than a comforting bowl of soup. I love experimenting with different soup varieties, like creamy tomato or hearty vegetable, to find the perfect match. The flavor combinations are endless—try a tangy sourdough with a rich butternut squash soup or a crusty slice with a smoky lentil stew. It’s a cozy, satisfying meal every time.

Cheese Pairings

While soups pair wonderfully with sourdough, cheese can truly elevate your Sourdough Bread Recipe experience. The tangy notes of sourdough complement creamy brie or sharp cheddar perfectly. For a bolder flavor, try blue cheese or aged gouda. If you love sweet-savory contrasts, soft goat cheese with a drizzle of honey is a must-try. Experiment with different cheeses to discover your ideal Sourdough Bread Recipe pairing!