Introduction
Artisan crusty sourdough bread is the soul of traditional baking. Made with wild yeast and time, it develops a deep, tangy flavor, an airy crumb, and a beautifully crisp crust. This bread is more than a recipe—it’s a craft that rewards patience and care.
Ingredients
100 g active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
350 g warm water (filtered, if possible)
500 g bread flour (high-protein flour for strong gluten)
10 g fine sea salt
Extra flour for dusting and shaping
Rice flour (optional, for proofing basket)
Instructions
Mix sourdough starter and warm water in a large bowl
Add flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms
Cover and let rest for bulk fermentation
Perform stretch and folds every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours
Allow dough to rise until increased by about 50%
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface
Shape into a tight round or oval loaf
Place dough into a floured proofing basket
Proof for 2–3 hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator
Preheat oven and Dutch oven to 450°F (232°C)
Transfer dough into the hot Dutch oven
Score the top with a sharp blade
Bake covered for 20 minutes
Remove lid and bake 15–20 minutes more until deeply golden
How to Make
Use a starter at peak activity for best rise
Build gluten strength through gentle stretch and folds
Shape carefully to create surface tension
Cold fermentation enhances flavor and structure
Steam trapped in the Dutch oven allows maximum oven spring
Cool completely before slicing for the best crumb
Variations
Add roasted garlic and rosemary for savory depth
Replace part of the flour with whole wheat for rustic flavor
Mix in jalapeños and cheddar for a spicy loaf
Add olives and thyme for a Mediterranean twist
Incorporate seeds like sesame or sunflower for texture
Tips
Always use your starter when bubbly and doubled
Do not rush fermentation—time builds flavor
Flour the banneton well to prevent sticking
Score confidently to guide oven expansion
Let bread cool at least 1 hour before cutting
Conclusion
Artisan sourdough bread is a celebration of simplicity, patience, and tradition. With its crackling crust and tangy, tender interior, this loaf proves that a few basic ingredients—handled with care—can create something truly extraordinary. 🍞✨
