Simple Steps to Make Sourdough Bread Without a Starter

Sourdough bread is a delicious and healthy option for those who enjoy baking at home. While traditional sourdough relies on a starter, you might want a quicker method without the need for pre-fermentation. Fortunately, with this simplified approach, you can enjoy the tangy, chewy goodness of sourdough bread without the wait.

Ingredients and Equipment

To get started, gather the following ingredients and equipment:

• 500 grams of bread flour
• 350 grams of water (room temperature)
• 10 grams of salt
• 7 grams of instant yeast
• A large mixing bowl
• A dough whisk or wooden spoon
• A proofing basket or bowl
• Parchment paper
• A Dutch oven or baking stone
• A sharp knife or lame

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and instant yeast. Gradually add the water while stirring with a dough whisk or wooden spoon. Mix until the dough begins to come together. Add the salt and continue mixing until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 2: Kneading the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This can also be done with a stand mixer using a dough hook attachment. If you’re using a mixer, knead on medium speed for roughly 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is the first rise, also known as bulk fermentation.

Step 4: Shaping the Dough

After the dough has risen, gently turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf. Be careful not to deflate the dough too much. Place the shaped dough into a proofing basket or a bowl lined with a floured tea towel, seam side up. Let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Preheating the Oven

While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a Dutch oven, place it inside the oven as it preheats to heat up. This will create a steamy environment, crucial for developing a good crust.

Step 6: Scoring the Dough

Turn the rested dough out onto a piece of parchment paper. Using a sharp knife or a lame, make a few shallow cuts on the surface of the dough. This is called scoring and helps control the expansion of the dough as it bakes.

Step 7: Baking the Bread

Carefully place the dough (with the parchment paper) into the preheated Dutch oven. If you’re not using a Dutch oven, place the dough directly on a baking stone. Bake the bread with the lid on for 20 minutes to retain steam. Then, remove the lid and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 8: Cooling the Bread

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Allowing the bread to cool completely enhances its flavor and texture, making it easier to slice.

Tips for Success

For the best results, consider the following tips:

• Use high-quality bread flour to develop the best gluten structure, giving your bread a chewy texture.
• Keep an eye on the dough during the first rise. The time can vary depending on room temperature and yeast activity.
• Practice shaping the dough to improve your bread’s final appearance and structure.
• Experiment with different scoring patterns for beautiful, artisanal-looking loaves.
• Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to ensure the interior is fully set.

Why Sourdough Without a Starter?

Choosing to make sourdough bread without a traditional starter can be beneficial for several reasons:

• Time-saving: No need to wait days or weeks to develop a starter.
• Consistency: Using instant yeast provides reliable and consistent results.
• Accessibility: Easier for beginners to get started with sourdough baking.

This method offers a straightforward path to homemade sourdough bread while still delivering excellent flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Creating sourdough bread without a starter is a rewarding and enjoyable process. By following these simple steps and paying attention to detail, you can bake delicious sourdough bread at home. Embrace the joy of baking, and soon enough, you’ll savor the satisfying tang and crusty exterior of your very own sourdough loaf.