There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe for homemade artisan sourdough bread that will impress your friends and family. Baking your own sourdough is a rewarding experience that brings a rustic flair to your kitchen. Let’s dive into the process and enjoy every step along the way!
Homemade Artisan Sourdough Bread
Before we begin, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients you’ll need. If you’re new to sourdough, don’t worry! With a little patience and practice, you’ll be a pro in no time.
### Ingredients
- 500g bread flour
- 375g water (room temperature)
- 100g sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
- 10g sea salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and water. Mix until no dry flour remains. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This process is called autolyse and will help develop the gluten.
- After the resting period, add the sourdough starter and sea salt to the dough. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. You can use your hands or a spatula for this step.
- Once mixed, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10-15 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you prefer less mess, you can use the stretch and fold method in the bowl instead of traditional kneading.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- When the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently shape it into a round loaf. Place it into a well-floured proofing basket or bowl, seam side up. Cover and let it proof for another 1-2 hours, or until it has puffed up noticeably.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) along with a Dutch oven inside for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a crispy crust.
- Once the oven is hot, carefully remove the Dutch oven. Gently place your dough into it, seam side down. You can score the top with a sharp knife if you’d like. Cover it with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. The internal temperature of the bread should reach around 200°F (93°C).
- When done, carefully transfer the bread to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing. This will help the crumb set properly.
Enjoy your homemade artisan sourdough bread with butter, jam, or simply on its own. Every bite will give you a sense of accomplishment and warmth. Happy baking!
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source = thewoksoflife.com