Unveil the timeless beauty of bread-making with our Rustic Charm Homemade Sourdough Bread. This artisanal bread, with its tangy flavor, chewy texture, and crisp, golden crust, is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of traditional baking. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, this sourdough bread recipe promises a delightful journey into the world of natural fermentation.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 hours (including proofing time)
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: About 21 hours
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 1 loaf
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 30g)
Nutritional Information (per slice)
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
Ingredients
- Active sourdough starter: 1 cup (200g)
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups (450g)
- Water, at room temperature: 1 1/2 cups (360ml)
- Sea salt: 1 teaspoon (5g)
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Mixing the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, and water. Mix until a rough dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Adding Salt: Add salt to the dough and fold it in. Cover and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
- Stretch and Fold: Perform a series of stretch and folds every 30 minutes for the next 2 hours.
- Bulk Fermentation: Let the dough rise at room temperature for about 8-12 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shaping the Dough: Gently shape the dough into a round loaf. Place it in a well-floured proofing basket. Cover and let it rise for another 2-3 hours.
- Preheating Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside for 30 minutes.
- Baking: Carefully transfer the dough into the hot Dutch oven. Score the top with a sharp knife. Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden.
- Cooling: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Hydration: Adjust the water amount based on the flour's absorption rate.
- Sourdough Starter: Ensure your starter is active and bubbly for best results.
- Scoring: A deep score helps the bread expand beautifully in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but it will make the bread denser.
Why is my sourdough dense?
It could be due to under-proofing or weak starter.
How long does homemade sourdough last?
It stays fresh for about 3-4 days at room temperature.
As you cut through the crisp crust of your Rustic Charm Homemade Sourdough Bread, embrace the warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. Each slice is not just bread; it's a celebration of patience, craftsmanship, and the timeless art of baking. May this sourdough bread be a delightful and nourishing addition to your table. Enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade bread!