- Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and water. Mix until no dry flour remains. Let it rest for about 30 minutes for autolyse.
- Add Starter and Salt
After the autolyse, add the active sourdough starter and salt to the dough. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Initial Fermentation
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for about 4-6 hours, performing stretch and fold every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours.
- Shape the Dough
After the initial fermentation, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a round or oval loaf, then let it rest for about 20 minutes.
- Final Shaping
Shape the dough again into a tight ball or rectangle, depending on your loaf pan. Place it seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.
- Proofing
Cover the loaf with a damp cloth and let it proof for about 2-3 hours at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight for a slower fermentation.
- Preheat the Oven
30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Bake
When ready to bake, score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife. Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown and the internal temperature reads around 200°F (93°C).
- Cool
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Calories:160 kcals
- Fat:0.5 grams
- Proteins:5 grams
- Carbohydrates:32 grams
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked sourdough sandwich bread wafting through your kitchen. This recipe is my go-to for creating a delicious, crusty loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathered with butter. If you’ve been searching for a way to elevate your lunchtime game, this sourdough sandwich bread is the answer.
With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can achieve a beautifully risen, tangy loaf that has a soft, chewy interior and a crispy crust. It’s the kind of bread that truly feels like a labor of love, but the best part? Once you get the hang of it, it becomes a rewarding routine.
Introducing Sourdough Sandwich Bread
The scent of sourdough sandwich bread baking is like a warm hug for your kitchen. Each loaf carries with it an inviting aroma that can brighten any day.
Made with simple ingredients, this bread transforms into a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Its unique flavor and texture come from the natural fermentation process, which creates that signature tang that sets sourdough apart from ordinary bread.
Whether it’s for sandwiches, toast, or just a generous spread of butter, this bread elevates your culinary experience. Every slice is a reminder of the joy found in home baking.
The Allure of Homemade Bread
There’s something special about baking bread at home. The process is not just about the final product; it’s about nurturing the dough and watching it transform.
Creating sourdough sandwich bread involves a bit of patience, but the result is worth every moment. The crisp crust encases a soft, chewy interior with characteristic larger holes, making each bite satisfying.
Once you’ve mastered the steps, making bread can become a cherished part of your routine, bringing comfort and fulfillment to your kitchen.
Key Ingredients for Success
Creating the perfect sourdough requires just a few essential ingredients. Bread flour provides structure and strength, while water hydrates the mixture, allowing the gluten to develop.
Your active sourdough starter is fundamental, as it introduces the natural yeasts necessary for fermentation. Lastly, a touch of salt enhances flavor and controls fermentation, ensuring your bread rises beautifully.
When sourced thoughtfully, these ingredients combine to create something truly remarkable, connecting you to generations of bakers before you.
Step-by-Step Bread Making
Making sourdough sandwich bread follows a straightforward process that results in a delicious loaf. Begin by mixing the flour and water, allowing for a resting period known as autolyse.
This is followed by incorporating the sourdough starter and salt, which activates the yeast and begins fermentation. As the dough rises, perform stretch and folds to develop gluten strength.
Shaping the dough is crucial, as it affects the final loaf’s structure. After proofing, the loaf is ready to bake, resulting in that beautiful golden crust that you can’t resist.
Tips for Perfect Sourdough Sandwich Bread
To achieve the best results with your sourdough sandwich bread, keep a few tips in mind. First, patience is key. Allowing the dough to ferment properly will enhance its flavor and texture.
Temperature plays a significant role in fermentation. A warmer environment encourages faster rises, while cooler conditions promote slower development, enhancing flavor.
Finally, don’t forget to preheat your oven adequately before baking. This ensures that your loaf achieves that perfect crust, sealing in moisture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Once your sourdough bread has cooled, the possibilities for serving are endless. For a classic option, pair it with your favorite sandwiches, from turkey and avocado to hearty veggie stacks.
Alternatively, enjoy it toasted with a spread of butter or jam for breakfast. The airy interior makes it ideal for absorbing flavors, making every bite delicious.
Whether you keep it simple or get creative, this bread will enhance any meal, making it truly special.
The Best Sourdough Sandwich Bread Recipe
