Description
A beginner-friendly sourdough loaf with a crispy crust and tender crumb, featuring a high starter ratio for pronounced flavor and faster rise.
Ingredients
- 2 cups active sourdough starter (about 400 g)
- 3 cups sifted all-purpose flour (about 360 g)
- 1 cup warm water (about 240 g)
- 1.5 teaspoons fine salt (≈9 g)
Instructions
- Add 2 cups (400 g) active starter to a large bowl.
- Whisk in 1 cup (240 g) warm water until evenly mixed.
- Add 3 cups (360 g) sifted all-purpose flour and 1.5 teaspoons (≈9 g) salt. Mix until the dough forms a wet, sticky mass.
- Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let rest in a warm place for 2 hours.
- Perform the first set of stretch-and-folds for strength, then let rise for 45 minutes.
- Repeat the stretch-and-fold two more times, allowing dough to rise in between.
- Shape the dough into a tight round loaf and place seam-side up in a floured basket.
- Refrigerate for 4 to 8 hours to develop flavor.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) with a Dutch oven inside.
- Turn the chilled dough onto parchment and score the top.
- Lift the dough into the hot Dutch oven and cover.
- Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake another 25 minutes until golden.
- Cool on a rack for 1 hour before slicing.
Notes
If your starter is less than 100% hydration, adjust water slightly. For a richer flavor, consider adding olive oil or honey.
- Prep Time: 180 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American