Baked to perfection.
Updated since October 22, 2023.

I find crafting my own bread to be a deeply rewarding endeavor that transcends the act of baking. Homemade bread offers control over ingredients, avoiding preservatives and artificial additives. Sourdough, a stellar choice, adds a layer of complexity with its natural fermentation. Beyond its distinctive taste and chewy texture, sourdough bread is easier to digest due to pre-digestion by beneficial bacteria. It boasts a lower glycemic index, promoting stable blood sugar levels. Creating sourdough connects you to an ancient tradition, nurturing a living culture in your kitchen. The bread machine allows for skipping the process of kneading which is the tedious part. Watching your starter flourish makes every slice a testament to patience, craftsmanship, and a healthier lifestyle.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup active sourdough starter
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 4 cups bread flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for added flavor)

Directions

1. Prepare Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the bread machine pan, add the warm water, sourdough starter, bread flour, salt, sugar, and olive oil if using.
3. Set the Machine: Place the bread machine pan into the bread machine. Select the “Dough” or “Manual” setting. This allows the machine to mix and knead the dough without baking it.
4. Let It Mix and Knead: Allow the machine to run through its dough cycle, which usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Keep an eye on the consistency of the dough; it should be smooth and elastic. If it’s too dry, add a little water, and if it’s too wet, add a little flour.
5. First Rise: Once the dough cycle is complete, leave the dough in the machine for the first rise. This typically takes 2 to 4 hours.
6. Shape the Dough: After the first rise, remove the dough from the machine and shape it into a round loaf. You can do this on a floured surface.
7. Second Rise: Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it rise again for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
8. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place bread in oven and then reduce temp to 400°F.
9. Bake: Once the dough has risen, slash the top with a sharp knife and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread has a golden-brown crust.
10. Cool: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

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