San Francisco Sourdough Bread
Serving size: 10 servings
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 45 mins
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Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 4 1/2 cups bread flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
Directions
- 1. In a large bowl, mix the active sourdough starter and warm water until well combined.
- 2. Add the salt and sugar to the measured 4.5 cups of bread flour, and mix. Gradually add the bread flour, stirring to form a rough dough.
- 3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours or until doubled in size.
- 5. Preheat the oven to 450°F and place a Dutch oven inside to heat.
- 6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Allow it to rest for 30 minutes.
- 7. Carefully place the dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30 minutes. (See notes for baking in a loaf pan.)
- 8. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.
- 9. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- This can be done in a loaf pan.
- What are the benefits of baking sourdough bread in a loaf pan?
- Baking sourdough bread in a loaf pan is easier for beginners, as the pan supports the dough during proofing and baking, leading to a successful rise even with less precise shaping. Additionally, it produces loaves that are perfectly shaped for sandwiches and toast
- Creating Steam: To achieve a good crust, place a pan of hot water in the oven while baking. This mimics the steam environment of a Dutch oven.
- Baking Temperature: Preheat the oven to around 425°F and bake for 35-45 minutes until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
