Classic Sourdough Bread Recipe

A Timeless Tradition

INTRODUCTION: Indulge in the rich, tangy flavor and chewy texture of authentic sourdough bread, crafted with love and patience. Our Sourdough Bread Recipe guides you through the ancient art of natural fermentation, using only flour, water, salt, and a hint of wild yeast. With each bite, experience the depth of flavor and satisfaction that comes from baking a true classic. Embrace the slow rise, and let the aroma of freshly baked sourdough fill your home.

Ingredients:

For the starter:

- 1/2 cup warm water (around 90°F to 100°F)

- 1/2 cup flour

For the dough:

- 1 cup warm water

- 1/4 cup active sourdough starter (fed and ripe)

- 3 tablespoons salt

- 4 cups bread flour

Instructions:

1. Create your sourdough starter: Mix 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup warm water in a clean glass or ceramic container. Cover and let rest at room temperature (around 70°F to 75°F) for 24-48 hours. Feed with more flour and water every 24 hours until bubbly and active.

2. Mix the dough: Combine warm water, sourdough starter, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the dough: Use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or knead by hand for 10-15 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

4. Ferment the dough: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rest at room temperature for 4-5 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the dough: Gently deflate the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf. Place onto a baking sheet or proofing basket lined with parchment paper.

6. Proof the dough: Cover and let rest at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size again.

7. Bake the bread: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven or ceramic pot with a lid. Place the dough inside and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Note: This recipe assumes you have an active sourdough starter. If you don't have one, you can create one from scratch or obtain some from a friend or bakery.

Variations:

- Whole wheat: Replace up to 50% of bread flour with whole wheat flour.

- Rye: Add up to 20% rye flour to the dough for a distinctive flavor.

- Herbs and spices: Mix in your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious homemade sourdough bread!

Here is the estimated calorie chart per serving of Sourdough Bread Recipe (serves 12-16 slices):

Per serving (approximate values):

- Calories: 170-200

- Protein: 4-5g

- Fat: 0.5-1g

    - Saturated fat: 0.1-0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 35-40g

    - Fiber: 2-3g

- Sodium: 200-250mg

- Sugar: 0.5-1g (naturally occurring from fermentation)

- Cholesterol: 0mg (plant-based ingredients)

Vitamins and minerals:

- Vitamin A: 0-1% of the Daily Value (DV)

- Vitamin C: 0-1% of the DV

- Calcium: 2-3% of the DV

- Iron: 10-15% of the DV

- Potassium: 8-10% of the DV

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and baking methods used.

Keep in mind that sourdough bread is often made with a slower digestion rate, which can lead to a more gradual increase in blood sugar levels. Additionally, the lactic acid produced during fermentation can increase the bioavailability of minerals like iron and zinc.