Are you craving the tangy delight of sourdough bread but intimidated by the lengthy starter process? Fear not! This recipe delivers the delicious, slightly sour taste of sourdough without the weeks-long wait. Using a simple baking powder and vinegar trick, we'll achieve that signature sourdough flavor in a fraction of the time, making this perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend baking project. It’s a delicious, healthy meal addition, and a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. This homemade cooking endeavor is surprisingly simple, even for beginners.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Gently stir and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add apple cider vinegar and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine. The vinegar provides a touch of that signature sourdough tang.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 5: First Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat it evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Gently punch down the risen dough. Shape it into a round loaf or an oblong shape, depending on your preference. Place the shaped dough in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious homemade sourdough bread!
Tips for Success:
- Use a thermometer to ensure your water is the correct temperature for activating the yeast. Too hot, and you'll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won't activate properly.
- Don't over-knead the dough. Over-kneading can result in a tough bread.
- If you want a crispier crust, brush the top of the bread with a little water before baking.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer storage.
Variations:
- Add herbs and spices: Incorporate dried herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spices like garlic powder or onion powder, into the dough for extra flavor.
- Add seeds and nuts: Mix in sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped nuts for added texture and nutrients.
- Use different types of flour: Experiment with whole wheat flour or a blend of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This quick sourdough bread recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a simple way to enjoy the delightful taste of sourdough without the commitment of a traditional starter. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking!