Classic Sourdough Bread Recipe

Homemade sourdough with a crispy crust and chewy center

Discover the joy of baking your own sourdough bread with this traditional recipe featuring a crisp crust and airy, chewy interior. This recipe guides you through creating your own starter and baking the perfect loaf.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sourdough starter
• 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
• 4 cups bread flour
• 1 tablespoon salt

Nutrition

Calories: ~180 calories per slice

Instructions

1. Prepare the starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is active. If refrigerated, feed it with equal parts flour and water and let it sit at room temperature for 6-12 hours.
2. Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter, water, and half of the flour until smooth. Gradually add the remaining flour and salt, kneading until the dough is elastic and slightly sticky.
3. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise at room temperature for about 4 hours or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the loaves: Turn the dough onto a floured surface, divide it into two parts, and shape each into a round loaf. Place them on a baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal.
5. Second rise: Cover the loaves with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 4 hours.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a pan of water on the bottom rack. Slash the top of each loaf with a sharp knife. Bake for 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Allow the bread to cool on a rack before slicing. Enjoy your homemade sourdough bread with butter or your favorite spreads!