How to Make Sourdough from Scratch

To make sourdough from scratch, follow these steps: Step 1: Create Sourdough Starter Mix 1/2 cup unbleached flour and 1/2 cup water in a clean glass or ceramic container. Cover and let it sit in a warm place for 24-48 hours to allow natural yeast and bacteria to develop. Step 2: Feed Sourdough Starter After 24-48 hours, discard half of the starter and add another 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup water. Mix well and cover. Repeat this feeding process every 24 hours for the next 5-7 days to strengthen the starter. Step 3: Mix Dough In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups unbleached flour, 1 cup water, 1/4 cup oats, and 1 tsp sourdough starter (after feeding). Mix until shaggy dough forms. Step 4: Knead Dough Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add a pinch of salt during kneading. Step 5: Ferment Dough Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it ferment in a warm place for 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size. Step 6: Shape Dough Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a round or oblong loaf. Step 7: Proof Dough Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet or proofing basket, cover, and let it proof in a warm place for 2-4 hours, or until it has doubled in size again. Step 8: Bake Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven or a ceramic pot with a lid inside. Place the dough into the preheated pot and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Step 9: Cool Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing. Enjoy your homemade sourdough bread! #share #food #mealprep #sourdoughbread