Are you ready to elevate your bread game? This recipe for sourdough French bread will transport your taste buds to a Parisian boulangerie, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Forget those bland, supermarket loaves – this recipe delivers a crusty exterior with a wonderfully airy, tangy interior. It's easier than you think, perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros seeking a delicious, healthy homemade option. Let's get started on this journey to delicious, homemade bread!
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
- 400g bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 280g water (room temperature)
- 10g salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Levain
- In a medium bowl, combine the ripe sourdough starter, bread flour, and water. Mix thoroughly until a smooth paste forms.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature (ideally 70-75°F) for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size and bubbly. This activates your starter and provides a strong foundation for your bread.
Step 2: Autolyse
- In a large bowl, combine the bread flour and water. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing. This autolyse step allows the flour to fully hydrate, leading to a more developed gluten structure.
- Cover and let rest for 30-60 minutes.
Step 3: Mixing the Dough
- Add the levain and salt to the autolysed dough.
- Using your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix the dough until it comes together and starts to form a shaggy mass (about 5-7 minutes).
- Continue kneading for another 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on low speed for 5 minutes, then medium speed for 2-3 minutes.
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 2-3 sets of stretch and folds during this time, every 30-45 minutes. This helps develop the gluten and creates a more open crumb.
Step 5: Shaping and Proofing
- Gently turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Shape the dough into a rectangular or oval shape.
- Place the shaped dough into a well-floured banneton basket (or a bowl lined with a floured tea towel). Seam-side up.
- Cover and refrigerate for 12-18 hours.
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 from the oven.
- Gently invert the dough from the banneton into the Dutch oven.
- Score the top of the dough with a sharp knife or lame (this creates a beautiful pattern and allows the bread to expand properly).
- Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- 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).
- Remove from the Dutch oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying.
Tips for Success:
- Use a kitchen scale: Precise measurements are crucial for successful bread baking.
- Don't overwork the dough: Overkneading can lead to a tough loaf.
- Room temperature is key: The temperature of your ingredients and environment significantly impacts fermentation.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your bread and adjust baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Add herbs: Incorporate rosemary, thyme, or other herbs into the dough for added flavor.
- Use different flours: Experiment with whole wheat flour or rye flour for a different texture and taste.
- Make it a focaccia: Shape the dough into a shallow pan and top with olive oil and herbs before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Protein: ~8g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fiber: ~3g
Enjoy your delicious, homemade sourdough French bread! It's perfect for dipping in olive oil, making sandwiches, or simply savoring on its own. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas, showcasing the magic of homemade cooking and delicious dishes. This recipe provides one of the best recipes out there for delicious, crusty sourdough.