San Francisco Sourdough: Iconic Bread Recipe

When it comes to bread baking, few can rival the profound and tangy flavor of a classic San Francisco sourdough. This iconic bread captures the essence of artisanal baking, marrying a delightful crust with a soft and chewy interior. Whether enjoyed as a standalone treat or paired with your favorite soups and stews, this recipe will guide you through the creation of this delightful sourdough loaf.

San Francisco Sourdough Bread

Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of sourdough before diving into the recipe. Here’s what you need to make your very own San Francisco sourdough bread.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the sourdough starter, sugar, and water until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough onto a clean work surface and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 4 to 6 hours.
5. After the dough has risen, gently deflate it and form it into a round shape. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. While the dough rests, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven or heavy pot inside to heat up.
7. Once rested, carefully remove the pot from the oven. Place the dough inside (you can line it with parchment paper for easier removal) and cover with the lid.
8. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the bread is a deep golden brown.
9. Remove the bread from the pot and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade San Francisco sourdough bread fresh from the oven! Each slice holds a texture and flavor that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.

source: thegingeredwhisk.com