Description
Experience the unbeatable taste and texture of Classic Sourdough Bread With Starters! This easy sourdough recipe uses a simple mixture of bread flour, water, salt, and a lively sourdough starter to create a loaf with a crispy crust, tangy flavor, and soft, chewy crumb. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast, easy dinner, healthy snack, or any meal in need of fresh bread. Great for beginner and advanced bakers searching for bread ideas, breakfast ideas, and homemade food ideas that truly impress.
Ingredients
400g bread flour
250g water (room temperature)
100g active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
8g sea salt
Instructions
1. Mix bread flour and water in a large bowl until just combined. Cover and let rest for 30-45 minutes (autolyse).
2. Add the active sourdough starter and salt to the dough. Mix by hand until fully incorporated.
3. Cover and let the dough rise at room temperature. Every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours, stretch and fold the dough in the bowl to build strength.
4. After bulk fermentation (total rise: 4-5 hours or until nearly doubled), gently shape the dough on a lightly floured surface. Form into a round or oval loaf, tucking the edges underneath.
5. Place the dough seam-side up into a floured proofing basket or bowl. Cover and let rise 2-4 hours at room temperature or refrigerate overnight for more flavor.
6. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with a Dutch oven inside. Turn dough onto parchment paper, score the top, and transfer to the hot Dutch oven.
7. Cover and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.
8. Cool on a rack before slicing and enjoying!
Notes
For best results, use an active starter that’s bubbly and has doubled in size within 4-6 hours after feeding.
A cold overnight proof in the fridge develops deeper flavor and a more open crumb.
Let the loaf cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American/European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 loaf)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: sourdough bread, homemade bread, easy recipe, healthy snack, breakfast ideas, dinner ideas