Craving the comforting tang and chewy texture of freshly baked bread? Look no further than this Easy Sourdough French Bread recipe. With its crisp crust and soft, airy interior, this homemade bread will elevate any meal or make a delightful snack all on its own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious results every time. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread!
**Easy Sourdough French Bread**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 1 ½ cups lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups bread flour
– Cornmeal, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, lukewarm water, and sugar. Stir well until the starter is fully dissolved in the water.
2. Add the olive oil and salt to the mixture and stir until evenly incorporated.
3. Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. As the dough begins to come together, use your hands to knead it gently in the bowl until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
4. Lightly flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest at room temperature for 3-5 hours or until it has doubled in size. The exact time may vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen.
6. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air. Shape the dough into a long loaf and place it on a baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
7. Cover the dough with a clean towel and allow it to rise again for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
8. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) while the dough is rising. Place a pan of hot water on the bottom rack to create steam in the oven, which will help develop a crusty exterior.
9. Using a sharp knife, make a few slashes on top of the dough to allow for proper expansion during baking.
10. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy your freshly baked Easy Sourdough French Bread!
Homemade bread always seems to have a special allure, and this Easy Sourdough French Bread is no exception. Give yourself the gift of fresh bread straight from your oven with this straightforward recipe. From casual weekday meals to special occasions, this bread will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. Share the joy of homemade bread with your loved ones and savor the simple pleasures of life. Happy baking!