Effortless Artisanal Sourdough Bread

Effortless Artisanal Sourdough Bread is exactly what its name suggests—effortless! Made with a homemade sourdough starter, this bread boasts a crusty exterior and a chewy, flavorful interior. Once you’ve got your sourdough starter ready, whip up this simple yet delightful loaf.

Artisanal Sourdough Bread Recipe

Sourdough bread holds a special place in many hearts, with its unique tangy flavor and hearty texture. This recipe simplifies the process, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience for the dough to rise. The result? A delicious loaf of freshly baked bread that’s worth every moment of waiting.

How to Make Effortless Artisanal Sourdough Bread

1. Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer bowl, combine all the ingredients for the dough. Mix on medium-low speed using the dough hook attachment until well combined. If mixing by hand, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. First Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 3 hours. During this time, the dough will double in size, developing its characteristic flavor and texture.
3. Folding and Rotating: After the initial rise, gently fold and rotate the dough to redistribute the yeast and air bubbles. Cover it again and allow it to rise for an additional 2-3 hours, depending on the ambient temperature.
4. Shaping the Loaf: Once the dough has risen again, transfer it to a floured work surface. Shape the dough by pulling up the sides and pressing them into the center, creating a smooth surface on top. Score the dough with a knife to allow for proper expansion during baking.
5. Baking: Preheat a Dutch oven in a cold oven to 450°F (230°C). Once heated, carefully transfer the dough into the hot Dutch oven using parchment paper. Bake the bread with the lid on for 15 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
6. Cooling: Allow the bread to cool in the Dutch oven for about 15-20 minutes before removing it. This resting period allows the flavors to develop further and ensures a moist and tender crumb.

Storing Effortless Artisanal Sourdough Bread

Artisanal sourdough bread can be stored at room temperature for 4-5 days, provided it’s kept in a cool, dry place and covered with a towel or placed in a bread box. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as it can hasten staling. For longer storage, freeze the bread once it has cooled completely. Simply seal it in a plastic freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and label it with the date. Enjoy it sliced and toasted straight from the freezer!

Ingredients:

Bread Bowl

• 4-5 cups (500-625g) all-purpose flour, preferably unbleached
• 1 1/2 cups (355g) warm water
• 3/4 cup (170g) active sourdough starter
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment.
2. Mix on low speed for about 5 minutes until the dough is sticky and doesn’t quite form a ball. If kneading by hand, knead for about 10 minutes.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 3 hours.
4. After the first rise, gently fold and rotate the dough in the bowl. Cover and let it rise for an additional 2-3 hours.
5. Shape the dough on a floured surface, then transfer it to a piece of parchment paper.
6. Preheat a Dutch oven in a cold oven to 450°F (230°C). Once heated, transfer the dough into the Dutch oven using the parchment paper.
7. Bake with the lid on for 15 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the Dutch oven for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!