Delicious Everyday Sourdough Bread Recipe

As I slice into a freshly baked loaf of sourdough, the warm aroma fills my kitchen, evoking a sense of comfort and indulgence. This Delicious Everyday Sourdough Bread Recipe takes around 7-8 hours from start to finish, but don’t let the time intimidate you; the end result is a crusty, chewy loaf that is simply irresistible. The slow fermentation process, thanks to the active sourdough starter, ensures a depth of flavor that elevates this bread above all others.

This recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers looking to enhance their homemade bread skills. It’s ideal for weekend baking or a special family dinner, and if you prepare it the night before, you can even let it rise in the refrigerator for an overnight treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crust is perfectly crackly, adding a delightful crunch.
• The interior boasts a soft, airy texture that’s perfect for sandwiches.
• It’s made with minimal ingredients and a straightforward technique.
• Each bite is bursting with subtle sour flavor thanks to the fermentation.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into this delightful baking adventure, gather your ingredients.

For the Dough

• 50 grams active sourdough starter
• 305 grams filtered water at temperature, around 85 to 90 degrees F
• 370 grams bread flour
• 30 grams whole wheat flour*
• 7 grams fine sea salt

*Whole wheat flour adds flavor but can be replaced with more bread flour.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour.
• Substitute regular water for filtered if needed.
• Omit whole wheat flour for a lighter loaf.
• Sea salt can be swapped with kosher salt.

How to Make It

Let’s get started on creating your own delicious sourdough bread.

1. Mix

In a large bowl, mix the starter and water with a fork until the starter is dispersed.

2. Add Ingredients

Add the flours and mix first with a spatula, then with your hands until a shaggy dough forms, ensuring no flour is visible.

3. Rest

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough sit for 30 minutes.

4. Knead

Add the salt on top of the dough and liberally knead for two minutes.

5. Perform Stretch and Folds

Perform your first set of stretch and folds. Let rest for 30 minutes, then repeat this process a total of four times.

6. Bulk Ferment

After the final stretch and fold, let the dough bulk ferment on the counter for about 6-7 hours, until it has risen about 75% and is puffy with a glossy top.

7. Shape

Gently move the dough to a floured work surface. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before shaping it into a round boule.

8. Prepare for Proofing

Place the shaped dough, seam side up, into a banneton dusted with rice flour. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise on the counter for about 2 hours, or refrigerate for 10-12 hours.

9. Preheat Oven

Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven with the Dutch oven inside to 450 degrees F.

10. Test Proofing

Gently press a floured thumb into the dough. If the indent gradually releases, it’s ready.

11. Flip and Score

Wait until the oven is preheated. Place parchment on top of the dough, flip it over, and score the top with a bread lame, ensuring cuts are at least 1/2 inch deep.

12. Bake

Place the dough on parchment into the Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 20 minutes at 450 degrees F. Remove the cover, lower the heat to 430 degrees F, and bake for another 25 minutes until golden brown.

13. Cool

Remove the bread from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Let it cool for at least one hour before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.

How to Store It

Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a kitchen scale for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before starting.
• Allow sufficient cooling time to develop the best texture.
• Monitor the dough’s rise rather than relying solely on time.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy it with homemade butter and jam.
• Use slices for hearty sandwiches filled with your favorite ingredients.
• Serve alongside a warm bowl of soup for a comforting meal.