Ultimate Guide: How to Bake Sourdough Bread from Starter at Home in 2024

1. Creating and maintaining a sourdough starter
2. Mixing and fermenting the dough
3. Shaping and scoring the bread
4. Baking and troubleshooting

Creating and maintaining a sourdough starter

To create a sourdough starter, mix flour and water and allow it to ferment. Feed the starter regularly to keep it active and maintain its consistency.

Mixing and fermenting the dough

Combine the starter with flour, water, and salt to form the dough. Allow the dough to ferment at room temperature, folding it periodically to develop gluten and enhance flavor.

Shaping and scoring the bread

After fermentation, shape the dough into a loaf and let it proof. Prior to baking, score the dough to control its expansion in the oven and achieve an attractive appearance.

Baking and troubleshooting

Bake the sourdough bread in a preheated Dutch oven to create steam and develop a crispy crust. Troubleshoot issues such as dense crumb, lack of rise, or uneven browning to improve your baking technique.