The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Sourdough Bread

Sourdough bread is a beloved classic that has gained popularity in recent years as people embrace the art of bread-making at home. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make your own delicious sourdough bread at home.

Ingredients

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
• 1/2 cup active sourdough starter
• 1 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Mix the flour, water, and sourdough starter in a large bowl until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Add the salt and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
4. After 30 minutes, perform a series of stretch and folds to help strengthen the dough.
5. Let the dough ferment for 6-12 hours, depending on the temperature of your kitchen.
6. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F and place a Dutch oven inside to preheat as well.
7. Score the dough and carefully transfer it to the Dutch oven.
8. Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
10. Let the bread cool completely before slicing and serving.