Simple Sourdough Recipe

I used to think baking sourdough was an all-day affair, but then I discovered how truly accessible it can be. The aroma of fresh-baked bread, with its crispy crust and chewy, open crumb, is simply unbeatable. This ‘simple sourdough recipe’ is designed for busy home bakers and families, allowing you to create delicious, artisan-quality bread without the fuss. It’s perfect for healthy recipes for families and fits beautifully into meal prep, even on a weeknight, making it a truly versatile ‘simple sourdough recipe’.

Ingredient Highlights and Smart Substitutions

• 100g (3.5 oz) active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly): This is the key for a tangy flavor and rise.
• 375g (1 ½ cups + 2 tbsp) filtered water, lukewarm: Hydrates the flour and supports starter activity.
• 500g (4 cups) strong bread flour (e.g., Type 00, high-protein): Creates robust gluten for a chewy texture. (For a high-protein option, I always use Type 00; strong all-purpose works if you don’t have it.)
• 10g (2 tsp) fine sea salt: Essential for flavor and controlling fermentation. (Swap with kosher salt if preferred.)
• 2 tablespoons (30 mL) extra virgin olive oil, plus 3 tablespoons (25g) za’atar spice blend: These combine for the aromatic paste.
• 1 tablespoon (8g) black sesame seeds: For visual appeal and a nutty crunch on the crust.

Healthy Upgrades & Accessible Options

• Use unbleached bread flour for a cleaner bake.
• Add a tablespoon of rye flour for deeper flavor and extra nutrients, complementing this ‘simple sourdough recipe’.
• If bread flour isn’t available, strong all-purpose flour can work, though texture may vary. Always ensure your starter is vibrant for the best rise.

Easy Cooking Instructions Step by Step

1. Mixing the Dough (Autolyse – 30 minutes): To begin your ‘simple sourdough recipe’, combine filtered water and strong bread flour in a large bowl until no dry spots remain, feeling shaggy. Cover and rest for 30 minutes to hydrate.
2. Salt & Starter Incorporation (5-7 minutes): Add active starter, gently mixing with wet hands until slightly sticky. Sprinkle in sea salt and knead gently for 5-7 minutes until cohesive.
3. Stretch and Folds (Over 3-4 hours): Perform 4-5 sets of stretch and folds every 30-45 minutes. The dough will become noticeably stronger and gassier.
4. Za’atar Paste Prep (Final Bulk Hour): In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil and 3 tablespoons za’atar, mixing until a thick paste forms.
5. Pre-Shape & Infuse (20 minutes): Lightly flour your surface. Gently turn out dough, stretch into a rectangle. Spread za’atar paste over two-thirds. Fold, then roll into a loose ball, creating a swirl. Rest, covered, for 20 minutes.
6. Final Shape & Cold Proof (12-18 hours): Lightly flour hands. Shape dough into a tight boule. Mist with water, then press black sesame seeds onto the top. Transfer, seam-side up, into a well-floured banneton. Cover and refrigerate for 12-18 hours. If your dough isn’t holding its shape well, try a firmer pre-shape next time, ensuring good surface tension. This cold proof is great for quick meal prep ideas.
7. Preheat Oven & Dutch Oven (At least 30 minutes): Preheat oven to 230°C (450°F) with a lidded Dutch oven inside for at least 30 minutes until piping hot.
8. Score & Bake (45-50 minutes): Carefully invert cold dough into the hot Dutch oven. Score the top. Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove lid, bake another 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown, reaching 96-99°C (205-210°F).
9. Cool Completely (2-3 hours): Remove loaf to a wire rack. Cool completely for at least 2-3 hours before slicing. This is crucial for the crumb structure and flavor of your ‘simple sourdough recipe’.

Time-Saving Tips & Special Notes

• The overnight cold proofing makes this ‘simple sourdough recipe’ a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights, offering great convenience.
• For a crisper crust, ensure your oven and Dutch oven are fully preheated; I often leave mine for 45 minutes to be sure.
• While not truly gluten-free, sourdough can be easier to digest for some. For true dietary needs, use a certified gluten-free flour blend.

Everyday Uses and Storage Advice

• Serving: This homemade sourdough is great toasted with butter, alongside stews, or as gourmet sandwiches. Excellent with avocado or a cheese board for quick meals.
• Repurposing: I often cube day-old sourdough for croutons; it gives leftovers new life!
• Storage: Store cooled loaf at room temp in airtight bag for 3-4 days. Freeze slices up to 3 months. Reheat in toaster or 350°F (175°C) oven.

Wellness & Lifestyle Benefits of Sourdough Bread

• Digestibility: Long fermentation can break down gluten/phytic acid, making it easier to digest for some.
• Nutrient Absorption: Improves bioavailability of flour’s nutrients.
• Balanced Energy: Lower glycemic index than conventional bread, helping stabilize blood sugar.
• Dietary Fit: Fits balanced diets and vegan eating plans, ideal for healthy recipes for families.

Recipe Value for Your Daily Goals

• Save Time & Money: Homemade bread is more affordable. Make-ahead steps mean this simple sourdough recipe fits busy schedules.
• Eat Healthier: Control ingredients, avoid additives, for wholesome food and healthy eating.
• Versatile Staple: Perfect for nutritious snacks, quick lunches, or hearty sides for family dinners.
• Family Satisfaction: Experience the joy of baking fresh, delicious bread for your loved ones.

Expert Tips, Variations, and Safety Notes

• Great Crust: Preheat Dutch oven thoroughly for optimal steam. A quick water spray before baking also helps.
• Flavor Boosters: Add toasted seeds (sesame, flax) or dried herbs (rosemary, thyme) to the dough.
• Flour Variations: Experiment with rye or spelt for unique sourdough flavor profiles.
• Allergy Reminder: Sourdough contains gluten. For severe allergies, use certified gluten-free flours and dedicated equipment.

FAQs About Sourdough Baking

Can I prepare my simple sourdough recipe ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! Cold proofing allows you to refrigerate shaped dough for 12-48 hours. This makes our simple sourdough recipe perfect for busy schedules and meal prep.

Is this simple sourdough recipe suitable for a high-protein diet?

Sourdough is great for a balanced diet. Boost protein by pairing slices with eggs or lean meats. Using stronger bread flour also adds protein.

What are the best sides to serve with sourdough bread?

Sourdough is versatile! Pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or cheese boards. I love serving my simple sourdough recipe with a frittata for an easy, fancy dinner!

How do I know my sourdough starter is active enough to bake with?

An active starter is bubbly and risen. Use the ‘float test’: drop a piece into water. If it floats, your simple sourdough recipe is ready for life!

Can I use all-purpose flour for this simple sourdough recipe instead of bread flour?

Yes, but expect a slightly different texture. Bread flour gives a chewier crumb. Minor water adjustments for this simple sourdough recipe’s dough consistency might be needed.

What if my sourdough crust isn’t crispy or golden brown?

Preheat oven and Dutch oven for an hour. Baking covered creates steam, then uncovered crisps. Resist slicing until your simple sourdough recipe is completely cooled to set the crust.

Conclusion

Embrace the rewarding journey of baking your own simple sourdough recipe for wholesome, healthy family meals. Pin this recipe for later, making quick meals and family dinners a joy with fresh, homemade bread!

simple sourdough recipe

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• Author: Elina Mirkle
• Total Time: 1250 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (10 servings) 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

This simple sourdough recipe creates delicious, artisan-quality bread with a crispy crust and chewy crumb, designed for busy home bakers and families, perfect for weeknight baking.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3.5 oz active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
• 1.5 cups filtered water, plus 2 tablespoons, lukewarm
• 4 cups strong bread flour (or high-protein all-purpose)
• 2 teaspoons fine sea salt (or kosher salt)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons za’atar spice blend
• 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Mix Dough (Autolyse): Combine filtered water and strong bread flour in a large bowl until no dry spots remain, feeling shaggy. Cover and rest for 30 minutes to hydrate.
2. Incorporate Salt and Starter: Add active starter, gently mixing with wet hands until slightly sticky. Sprinkle in sea salt and knead gently for 5-7 minutes until cohesive.
3. Perform Stretch and Folds: Perform 4-5 sets of stretch and folds every 30-45 minutes. The dough will become noticeably stronger and gassier.
4. Prepare Za’atar Paste: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil and 3 tablespoons za’atar, mixing until a thick paste forms.
5. Pre-Shape and Infuse: Lightly flour your surface. Gently turn out dough, stretch into a rectangle. Spread za’atar paste over two-thirds. Fold, then roll into a loose ball, creating a swirl. Rest, covered, for 20 minutes.
6. Final Shape and Cold Proof: Lightly flour hands. Shape dough into a tight boule. Mist with water, then press black sesame seeds onto the top. Transfer, seam-side up, into a well-floured banneton. Cover and refrigerate for 12-18 hours.
7. Preheat Oven and Dutch Oven: Preheat oven to 450F (230C) with a lidded Dutch oven inside for at least 30 minutes until piping hot.
8. Score and Bake Loaf: Carefully invert cold dough into the hot Dutch oven. Score the top. Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove lid, bake another 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown, reaching 205-210F (96-99C).
9. Cool Loaf Completely: Remove loaf to a wire rack. Cool completely for at least 2-3 hours before slicing. This is crucial for the crumb structure and flavor.

Notes

The overnight cold proofing makes this a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights. For a crisper crust, ensure your oven and Dutch oven are fully preheated (recommended 45 minutes). Sourdough can be easier to digest for some but is not truly gluten-free. If dough isn’t holding its shape, try a firmer pre-shape next time. Optional: Use unbleached bread flour for a cleaner bake or add 1 tablespoon of rye flour for deeper flavor.

• Prep Time: 35 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (80 g)
• Calories: 230 calories
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 43 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: simple sourdough, artisan bread, meal prep, healthy, weeknight baking, zaatar, black sesame, easy bread, Dutch oven