Are you dreaming of that irresistible sourdough tang but intimidated by the long fermentation times? This recipe uses Red Star Yeast to give you the delightful sour flavor of sourdough with a significantly shorter wait. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights, delivering a delicious loaf of homemade bread without the usual sourdough commitment. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike, offering a delicious and healthy addition to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon Red Star Active Dry Yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 cup sourdough starter (fed 4-6 hours prior) See note below
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
Mixing the Dough:
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Stir in the olive oil and salt. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
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Add the sourdough starter and continue mixing until the dough comes together. It will be slightly sticky.
Kneading and Rising:
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
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Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Baking:
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Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf or a rustic boule.
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Place the shaped dough in a lightly oiled 9x5 inch loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. A bread thermometer inserted into the center should read 200°F (93°C).
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Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips for Success:
- Sourdough Starter: If you don't have a sourdough starter, you can purchase one online or from a local bakery. A well-fed starter is essential for the best flavor. The 4-6 hour feed time before using ensures it’s active and contributes to the tang.
- Water Temperature: Make sure your water is the correct temperature. Too hot will kill the yeast; too cold will slow down the rising process.
- Flour Type: You can experiment with different types of flour, such as bread flour or whole wheat flour, for variations in texture and flavor.
- Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on your bread and adjust accordingly.
Variations:
- Herbs and Spices: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spices like garlic powder or onion powder to the dough for extra flavor.
- Seeds and Nuts: Incorporate seeds (sunflower, poppy, flax) or chopped nuts into the dough for added texture and nutrition.
- Sweet Bread: Add 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of raisins or cranberries for a sweeter loaf.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fiber: 2-3g
Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade Red Star Yeast Instant Sourdough bread! It's perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own. This recipe proves that quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking can coexist beautifully, delivering healthy meals that taste incredible. This is definitely one of the best recipes for achieving amazing sourdough flavor with minimal effort.