Rustic Sourdough Loaf

Experience the timeless flavor of our Rustic Sourdough Loaf, a classic bread recipe with a crispy crust and tangy center, perfect for gourmet sandwiches or a simple buttered slice.
Prep time: 1 hour
Cook time: 55 minutes
Serves: 8

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
1 cup active sourdough starter
2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the active sourdough starter and warm water to the flour mixture.
3. Stir the mixture until a sticky dough forms.
4. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Perform a series of stretch and folds on the dough every 30 minutes for 2 hours.
6. After the last fold, let the dough rise at room temperature for 4-5 hours, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat up.
8. Carefully transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape into a round loaf.
9. Place the shaped dough onto a piece of parchment paper and cover with a cloth.
10. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes while the oven heats.
11. Remove the Dutch oven from the oven, place the dough (with parchment) inside, cover with a lid, and bake for 20 minutes.
12. Remove the lid and continue to bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
13. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Storage

Store the bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Reheating

To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and place it in a preheated 350°F (177°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

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This recipe is for informational purposes only. Always follow proper food safety practices, cook foods to safe internal temperatures, and store leftovers appropriately. Results may vary.