Sourdough French Bread: Crusty Artisan Loaf Recipe

Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked homemade bread wafting through your kitchen. If you’re looking to impress your family or guests, try making this delightful artisan sourdough bread. With its crusty exterior and soft, chewy interior, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of sourdough!

Homemade Artisan Sourdough Bread

This recipe is not just about ingredients; it’s about patience and technique. The magic of sourdough comes from the fermentation process that develops that iconic tangy flavor and airy texture.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups water (room temperature)
• 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the sourdough starter and the water to the flour mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes. This step is called autolyse and helps the flour absorb the water.
4. After the rest period, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise at room temperature for about 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf. Place it seam-side down in a floured proofing basket or bowl.
7. Cover it and let it rise again for about 2-3 hours, or until it has puffed up.
8. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) about 30 minutes before baking. Place a Dutch oven inside to heat it up.
9. When the bread is ready, carefully take the hot Dutch oven out. Turn the loaf out onto parchment paper and score the top with a sharp knife.
10. With the parchment paper, lower the loaf into the Dutch oven and cover it with the lid. Bake covered for 30 minutes.
11. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
12. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Once cooled, enjoy your beautiful homemade sourdough bread! Whether you spread some butter on a warm slice or use it to make a gourmet sandwich, this bread is sure to be a hit.

source: thewoksoflife.com