Rustic Sourdough Loaf Recipe

ByKirsten

There’s something inherently satisfying about baking a loaf of bread from scratch, especially when it’s a rustic sourdough loaf. With its crusty exterior, chewy crumb, and tangy flavor, this bread showcases the timeless tradition of artisanal baking.

Baking With Sourdough

Baking a rustic sourdough loaf is more than just following a recipe. With minimal ingredients and a touch of patience, you can create a delicious Rustic Sourdough Loaf.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup active sourdough starter
  • 3 cups bread flour
  • 1 ½ cups lukewarm water
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt

Directions:

  1. Rest the Dough: After mixing the dough, allow it to rest for 30 minutes. This rest period helps the flour to fully hydrate and makes the dough easier to handle.
  2. First Stretch and Fold: After the initial 30-minute rest, perform the first round of stretch and folds:
    • With wet hands, lift one side of the dough and fold it over to the opposite side.
    • Turn the bowl 90 degrees and repeat the stretch and fold process.
    • Perform this action four times, once for each side of the dough.
    • Rest Period: Allow the dough to rest for another 30 minutes.
    • Additional Stretch and Folds: Repeat the stretch and fold process three more times, with 30-minute rests in between each set.
  3. Preheat the Oven: About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 425 F . Place a Dutch oven or cast iron on the middle rack to preheat as well.
  4. Score and Bake: Once the oven is preheated, carefully transfer the risen loaf into the preheated Dutch oven or onto the preheated baking stone.
    • Using a sharp knife or razor blade, score the top of the loaf with shallow cuts to allow for expansion during baking.
    • Cover the Dutch oven with its lid or create a steamy environment in the oven by placing a pan of boiling water on the bottom rack.
    • Bake the loaf covered for 20 minutes, then remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  5. Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, transfer the rustic sourdough loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
    • Slice into thick slices and enjoy!

This Freshly Baked Bread Will Not Disappoint!

With this rustic sourdough loaf recipe, you can bring the charm of artisanal baking into your own kitchen. This sourdough loaf is sure to become a staple in your weekly baking. 🍞✨