Are you ready to elevate your dinner table with the irresistible aroma and taste of homemade garlic sourdough bread? This recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced sourdough enthusiasts. Forget store-bought loaves; this easy recipe will guide you through creating a crusty, flavorful bread that’s sure to become a family favorite. It's a fantastic addition to any meal, from simple soups to hearty stews, and makes a delicious snack all on its own. This recipe provides a delicious and healthy alternative to processed bread, making it a great addition to your repertoire of healthy meal options.
Ingredients:
- For the Levain (Sourdough Starter Build):
- 50g ripe sourdough starter (fed 4-6 hours prior)
- 50g bread flour
- 50g water (room temperature)
- For the Dough:
- All of the levain
- 300g bread flour
- 100g whole wheat flour (optional, for added flavor and nutrition)
- 250g water (room temperature)
- 10g salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (plus extra for topping, optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Levain
In a medium bowl, combine the ripe sourdough starter, bread flour, and water. Mix well until everything is incorporated. Cover the bowl and let it rest at room temperature (around 70-75°F) for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size and bubbly. This step is crucial for activating your starter and ensuring a successful rise.
Step 2: Autolyse (Mixing the Dough)
In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, whole wheat flour (if using), and water. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Let it rest, covered, for 30 minutes. This autolyse step allows the flour to fully hydrate, resulting in a more developed gluten structure and easier kneading.
Step 3: Adding Ingredients and Kneading
Add the levain, salt, minced garlic, and olive oil (if using) to the autolysed dough. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Then, using the stretch and fold method (explained below), knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Bulk Fermentation
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until almost doubled in size. Perform stretch and folds every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours to develop the gluten strength.
Step 5: Shaping and Proofing
Gently turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place the shaped loaf in a well-floured banneton basket (or a bowl lined with a floured kitchen towel). Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours. This cold proof enhances flavor development.
Step 6: Baking
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) with a Dutch oven inside for at least 30 minutes. Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven. Score the dough with a sharp knife or lame. Transfer the dough into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 20 minutes.
Step 7: Final Bake
Remove the lid and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-210°F (93-99°C).
Step 8: Cooling and Serving
Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade garlic sourdough bread!
Stretch and Fold Technique:
Gently grab one side of the dough, stretch it upwards, and fold it over the dough. Rotate the bowl 90 degrees and repeat the process for all four sides. This strengthens the gluten network without over-kneading.
Variations:
- Herb Sourdough: Add your favorite herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough.
- Cheese Sourdough: Incorporate shredded cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella cheese into the dough.
- Roasted Garlic Sourdough: Use roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements.
- Ensure your starter is active and bubbly before beginning.
- Don't over-knead the dough; it should be smooth but not overly tight.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: 150-200 Carbohydrates: 30-40g Protein: 5-7g Fat: 2-4g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Enjoy this amazing garlic sourdough bread recipe! It’s a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and delicious dishes. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below!