Easy Sourdough Bread
A no fuss technique to getting sourdough bread on the table
Prep Time 1 d
Cook Time 1 hr
Course Appetizer, bread
Cuisine American, Italian
Large Glass Bowl
Banneton proofing basket (optional)
Dutch Oven
Parchment paper
Kitchenaid mixer with dough hook attachment (optional)
Wooden spoon for mixing if you are doing it by hand
Dough scraper for working with the bread dough
- 2 Cups Mature Sourdough Starter
- 5 Cups Flour
- 1-2 Cups Water Add 2 cups if the dough isn't sticky
- 2 Tbsp Sea Salt
First thing is to feed your sough dough starter 5-12 hours before even making this bread. As I mentioned above having a bubbly and ready to go starter is key for success!
Combine both your warm water and your regular flour to a bowl and let the water hydrate the flour. You can leave it for 15-20 minutes before adding in your sourdough starter.
After you add in your active sourdough starter sprinkle salt on top and incorporate together with your hands, a mixer, or even wooden spoon.
Once the dough ball is formed cover your bowl with a damp tea towel and let it rest for around 30 minutes to an hour in a warm place preferably over 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Stretch and Fold
Once your sourdough has rested in a warm place for around 30 minutes now is the time to stretch the dough and fold it overtop of itself. This process establishes the gluten and will ensure you have a nice rise when it comes time to bake!
Work in sets of three. Do your first 3 stretch and folds every 15-30 minutes for about an hour and then let it rest again in a warm place covered by a damp towel or plastic wrap. You will want to see the dough doubled in size.
You can let your dough sit all day long if you need it to, or revisit it after a few hours. I will cover bowl and let it go for about 6 hours.
Proofing and Prepping To Bake
Keyword sourdough bread, sourdough bread crust, Sourdough crust