Recipe For Sourdough San Francisco Style Made Easy

Creating homemade artisan sourdough bread is not only a rewarding experience but also an opportunity to perfect the art of baking. The distinctive flavor and texture of sourdough, complemented by its crispy crust, make it a distinguished choice for any bread lover. This recipe guides you through the process of crafting your own loaf from start to finish.

Homemade Artisan Sourdough Bread

Before you dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions, take a moment to marvel at the beautiful outcome of this sourdough bread.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup of sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
1 ¼ cups water (room temperature)
1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Mixing the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Slowly add the sourdough starter and water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. You may use a wooden spoon or your hands for this process.
Autolyse: Let the dough rest for about 30 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate, which improves the dough’s structure.
Kneading: After the autolyse, knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use the stretch-and-fold technique during this time.
Bulk Fermentation: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours or until it has doubled in size. This step can vary based on the warmth of your kitchen and the activity of your starter.
Shaping: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it onto a floured surface, shape it into a round or oval loaf, and place it seam side down in a well-floured banneton or bowl.
Final Proofing: Cover the shaped dough and allow it to proof for an additional 1-2 hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor and convenience.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it inside to heat up. When ready, carefully remove the hot pot, place the loaf inside (you can score the top for better oven spring), and cover with the lid. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then an additional 15-20 minutes uncovered until golden brown.
Cooling: Once baked, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This is crucial as it allows the interior crumb to set properly.

Enjoy your homemade artisan sourdough bread fresh with butter, or use it as the foundation for sandwiches or toast. Each bite is a testament to your baking skills and the time invested in perfecting this craft.