- Creating the sourdough starter
- Mixing and kneading the dough
- Fermenting and shaping the dough
- Baking the sourdough bread
Creating the sourdough starter
To create a sourdough starter, mix equal parts of flour and water in a jar and let it sit at room temperature. Feed the starter daily with more flour and water until it becomes bubbly and active.
Mixing and kneading the dough
Combine the sourdough starter with flour, water, and salt to form a dough. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, then let it rest and rise.
Fermenting and shaping the dough
Allow the dough to ferment at room temperature for several hours, folding it periodically to develop gluten. Shape the dough into a boule or batard before placing it in a proofing basket for its final rise.
Baking the sourdough bread
Preheat the oven with a Dutch oven inside. Once the dough has risen, carefully transfer it to the hot Dutch oven and bake with the lid on. Remove the lid halfway through baking to allow the crust to brown. Let the bread cool before slicing and enjoying.