Are you ready to elevate your bread game? This Jalapeno Cheese Sourdough Bread recipe is the perfect blend of tangy sourdough, spicy jalapenos, and the creamy richness of cheese. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for sourdough beginners, and the result is a loaf that's bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion – from a casual weeknight dinner to a sophisticated brunch. This recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, transforming simple ingredients into a truly delicious dish. Get ready for a flavor journey that will leave you craving more!
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
- 350g water (room temperature)
- 10g salt
- 50g cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2-3 jalapenos, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Levain
In a medium bowl, combine the sourdough starter, bread flour, and water. Mix well until thoroughly combined. Cover the bowl and let it rest at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size and bubbly. This step activates your starter and provides the foundation for your sourdough bread.
Step 2: Autolyse
In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and water. Mix gently until just combined; don't overmix. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes. This autolyse step helps hydrate the flour and improves dough structure.
Step 3: Mixing the Dough
Add the levain and salt to the autolysed dough. Mix thoroughly until the dough comes together. Add the shredded cheese and chopped jalapenos, and continue mixing until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bulk Fermentation
Perform a series of stretch and folds, every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours. This develops gluten and strength in the dough. After 2 hours, let the dough bulk ferment for another 3-4 hours, or until it has increased in size by about 50%. The exact time will depend on your kitchen temperature.
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 dough in a well-floured banneton basket (or a bowl lined with a floured linen cloth). Cover and refrigerate for 12-18 hours. This cold proof improves flavor and texture.
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. Gently transfer the dough from the banneton into the Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the lid and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 205-210°F (96-99°C).
Step 7: Cooling and Enjoying
Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips for Success:
- Use a ripe sourdough starter for the best results.
- Don't overmix the dough, as this can lead to a tough loaf.
- Adjust the amount of jalapenos to your preferred spice level.
- For a crispier crust, bake the bread uncovered for a longer period.
Variations:
- Different Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Gruyere.
- Added Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.
- Other Veggies: Add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or olives for a more complex taste.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Around 200-250 Protein: Around 7-10g Fat: Around 8-12g Carbohydrates: Around 30-35g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Jalapeno Cheese Sourdough Bread recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a delicious dish that's perfect for quick dinner ideas, showing that homemade cooking can be both rewarding and enjoyable. Enjoy the amazing aroma and taste of this flavorful bread!