Sourdough French Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough starter
240 grams
- 1 ½ cups warm water
283 grams
- 2 Tbsp sugar
25 grams
- 1/3 cup olive oil
80 grams
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
500 grams
- 2 tsp salt
15 grams
Directions
- 1
Combine starter, water, sugar, oil, and 3 c flour in a medium bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer. Stir using a dough whisk or flat beater until a thick, sticky dough forms. This is called a sponge. Cover and let rest for 30 mins.
- 2
Add 1 cup of flour on the countertop and knead in one cup of flour at a time until the dough is no longer sticky. Then knead for 10 minutes by hand until the dough is soft, smooth, and elastic. See video below for more tips. You should be able to stretch the dough for 4-5" without it tearing. Use a timer to time kneading and take short breaks if your arms get sore.
- 3
Use the dough hook at low speed to mix the dough until it cleans the sides and bottom of the mixing bowl. Knead in mixer for 5-7 minutes, until a soft, smooth, and elastic dough forms. You should be able to stretch the dough for 4-5" without it tearing.
- 4
Place dough into a large greased bowl turning the dough over, and cover with a clean damp towel or plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place (75º to 85º is ideal) overnight or for 8 hours (or until dough is bubbly and has doubled in size).
- 5
Cut the dough in half. Flatten each half to a 5" x 7" rectangle (i use my fingertips to gently deflate or degas the dough). Then tightly roll on the long side. Pinch the ends to seal them.
Sourdough French Bread Recipe
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About this Recipe
Transform your sourdough discard into something truly special with this Sourdough French Bread recipe. Get ready for a loaf that boasts an irresistibly crisp crust and a tender, airy interior, perfect for any meal.
This recipe shines by giving your active sourdough starter a new life, creating a deeply flavored French bread with minimal effort. The beauty lies in its simple yet effective approach to achieving that classic texture: an amazing crunch on the outside paired with a soft, savory crumb inside, all from just a few key ingredients.
Imagine tearing into a warm, rustic loaf, hearing the crackle of its golden crust, and then sinking your teeth into a light, airy interior. This savory bread is designed for pure enjoyment, whether it's soaking up olive oil, accompanying a rich stew, or simply spread with butter. You'll find yourself reaching for another slice of this homemade delight, proud to have created such a delicious bread from scratch.
Customization & Variations
You have flexibility with your ingredients; feel free to use bread flour for an even chewier texture, or stick with all-purpose flour for a lighter crumb. For the oil, any plant-based cooking oil can easily substitute olive oil if preferred, ensuring a versatile bread that fits your pantry.
This versatile French bread is ideal for dipping in your favorite oils, spreading with butter, or as a hearty accompaniment to soups and main courses, elevating any dining experience.