Sourdough Saturday! Recipe below
Sourdough English Muffin Bread Recipe
Ingredients
• 1 cup (227g) active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
• 1 ½ cups (355ml) warm milk (or a mix of milk and water)
• 2 tsp sugar or honey
• 2 tsp salt
• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose or bread flour
• 1 tsp baking soda (added just before baking)
• Cornmeal or semolina, for dusting
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Instructions
1. Mix the Dough (Night Before or Morning Of):
• In a large bowl, mix the starter, warm milk, sugar, and salt.
• Stir in the flour until a thick, sticky dough forms. Mix until no dry flour remains.
• Cover and let rise at room temperature for 8–12 hours (or overnight), until doubled and bubbly.
2. Prepare for Baking:
• Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and sprinkle it with cornmeal or semolina.
• Stir the baking soda into the dough. It will deflate slightly and become a bit more airy and stretchy.
3. Second Rise:
• Scrape the dough into the prepared pan (it’ll be sticky – don’t worry).
• Smooth the top with a wet spatula and sprinkle with more cornmeal.
• Let rise for about 1 hour, or until it’s just above the edge of the pan.
4. Bake:
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temp reaches ~200°F (93°C).
• Let cool in the pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Sourdough bread has gained immense popularity among baking enthusiasts due to its distinctive taste and texture. This recipe for Sourdough English Muffin Bread highlights the simplicity of creating a delicious loaf at home using an active sourdough starter. Sourdough starters are naturally fermented, feeding on the carbohydrates present in flour, which not only helps in leavening but also adds a unique flavor profile that commercial yeast can't replicate. Making Sourdough English Muffin Bread starts with the vital step of creating the dough. For best results, let the dough rise for an extended period; this improves the flavor and texture. Ideally, you want a dough that is well-aerated and bubbly before you bake it. Don’t be discouraged by the “sticky” nature of the dough—this is often a sign that you're on the right path to achieving that characteristic chewy crust and soft inside that sourdough breads are known for. During the baking process, ensure that you reach an internal temperature of approximately 200°F (93°C). This step guarantees that your bread is cooked through and prevents any gummy texture inside the loaf. Proper cooling on a wire rack is essential as it allows excess moisture to escape, which helps develop a crust while maintaining a light and airy crumb. Serve it warm or toasted with your favorite spreads, or use it to create delicious breakfast sandwiches! Many home bakers appreciate how sourdough can elevate a simple recipe into an artisan-quality experience. Don’t forget that practice makes perfect, and experimenting with different flours or hydration levels can lead to even better results. By making Sourdough English Muffin Bread, you’re participating in a time-honored tradition that celebrates patience and passion in the kitchen.
