Easy Sourdough Bread for Beginners

Ingredients

• 350 grams Water ((warm, about 80-85°F / 26-29°C))
• 500 grams Bread flour ((preferably 11-12% protein))
• 100 grams Sourdough starter ((100% hydration, active & bubbly))
• 10 grams Kosher salt
• 30 grams Olive oil ((optional) )

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the Dough (5 minutes)- In a large bowl, mix flour and warm water. Stir with a spoon until it forms a rough dough. Add sourdough starter and salt, then mix until combined. Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. 2

   Let it Rise (Bulk Ferment) (6-8 hours) - Leave the dough at room temperature (on the counter) for 6-8 hours until it doubles in size.

3. 3

   (optional step)- Stretch & Fold - If you remember, during the bulk ferment hours. Every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours, perform stretch and folds: Gently grab one side of the dough, stretch it up, and fold it over itself. Rotate the bowl and repeat on all four sides.

4. 4

   Shape the Dough (2 minutes) - Sprinkle a little flour on your counter and gently shape the dough into a ball. Place it in a lightly floured bowl or a proofing basket.

5. 5

   Second Rise (1 hour or Overnight) - Cover the dough and let it rest for 1 hour at room temperature, OR put it in the fridge overnight for better flavor.

6. 6

   Bake the Bread (45 minutes) - Preheat oven to 230°C (450°F). If using a Dutch oven, preheat it too. Place the dough on parchment paper, score the top with a knife, and put it in the hot Dutch oven. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 20 minutes until golden brown.

7. 7

   Cool and Enjoy - Let the bread cool completely before slicing (it keeps the inside soft and airy).