Are you dreaming of that tangy, chewy sourdough loaf but intimidated by the starter? Fear not! This recipe lets you enjoy the deliciousness of sourdough bread without the lengthy wait and meticulous care of a traditional starter. Using a clever combination of ingredients, we'll achieve that signature sourdough flavor right in your bread machine. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and easy path to homemade, healthy bread. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (provides that tangy sourdough-like flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ cup whole wheat flour (for added nutrients and texture)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- In your bread machine pan, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
- Add salt, lemon juice, and olive oil to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the pan to incorporate all the ingredients fully.
Step 2: The Bread Machine's Role
- Select the "dough" setting on your bread machine. This usually takes about 1.5 hours. If your machine doesn’t have a dedicated dough setting, select the basic setting and stop the machine before the baking cycle begins.
- Once the dough cycle completes, remove the dough from the pan and gently shape it into a round or oval loaf.
Step 3: Shaping and Baking
- Place the shaped dough in a greased loaf pan. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size. This second rise allows for a fluffier texture.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). You can use a bread thermometer for accurate results.
Step 4: Cooling and Enjoying
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This prevents a soggy bottom and allows the crust to crisp up beautifully.
- Once cooled, slice and enjoy your delicious homemade sourdough bread! It's perfect with butter, soup, or simply on its own.
Tips for Success:
- Water Temperature: Ensure the water is within the specified temperature range (105-115°F) to activate the yeast properly. Too hot will kill the yeast, and too cold will slow down the process.
- Flour Consistency: The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it's too wet, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
- Second Rise: The second rise is crucial for the final texture of the bread. A warm, draft-free environment is ideal for this stage.
Variations:
- Seeds and Nuts: Add ½ cup of your favorite seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, flax) or chopped nuts to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
- Herbs: Incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs like rosemary or oregano for an aromatic twist.
- Different Flours: Experiment with different types of flour, such as rye or spelt flour, to change the flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 Protein: Approximately 5-7g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
This easy sourdough bread machine recipe delivers all the flavor and texture of sourdough without the hassle of a starter. It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes, providing a healthy and homemade alternative to store-bought bread. Enjoy!