Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe

“Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe – Soft, Tangy, and Perfect for Beginners!”

Looking to make homemade sourdough bread without a starter? This easy sourdough bread recipe is perfect for beginners! With basic ingredients like flour, yogurt, and yeast, you can make a soft, tangy loaf in just a few simple steps. This no-starter sourdough recipe includes an overnight rise to develop flavor, creating a chewy texture and golden crust. Ideal for breakfast, sandwiches, or as a side for soup, this quick sourdough recipe is a must-try for fresh, homemade bread at home. Enjoy bakery-quality sourdough without the fuss!

Ingredients

• 3 cups wheat flour
• 14 grams dry or powdered yeast
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 3/4 cup water, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• Optional: 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: The night before baking, begin by activating the yeast. Warm 1/4 cup of water in the microwave for about 10 seconds—it should be warm, not hot. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water with the yeast and sugar. Stir well and let sit for about 20 minutes until it becomes foamy and fragrant.
2. Combine the ingredients: Add salt, Greek yogurt, and flour gradually to the yeast mixture, stirring to form a dough. Slowly add the remaining water as you mix, adding more as needed if the dough feels too dry. Transfer the dough to a clean, flat surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it’s smooth and no longer sticks to your fingers.
3. Shape the dough: Lightly flour a surface and gently stretch the dough. Fold each corner of the dough toward the center to form a ball. Repeat the folding at least 3 times to build structure, which will aid in fermentation.
4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly floured bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it ferment overnight at room temperature.
5. Second rise: After the first rise (about 10 hours), remove the dough from the bowl and gently knead to release the air. Shape it back into a ball. Place the dough ball in a plastic bag and refrigerate for an additional 2 hours.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Prepare an iron pot with a floured lid. Place the dough in the pot, cover, and bake for 25 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the lid to allow the top of the bread to brown.
7. Cool: Once golden brown, remove the bread from the oven. Transfer it to a cooling rack and let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

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Tips

• Room Temperature Rise: Allow the dough to rise overnight at room temperature to develop flavor and texture.
• Check Dough Consistency: Add extra water only if the dough seems too dry. Add it a tablespoon at a time to reach the right consistency.
• Browning Tip: Removing the lid for the last 10 minutes of baking gives the bread a beautifully golden crust.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Add Seeds or Nuts: Mix in sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Use Different Flours: For a heartier loaf, replace half of the wheat flour with whole wheat or rye flour.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute a dairy-free yogurt alternative if needed.

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FAQs

Can I skip the overnight fermentation?
No, this step is essential for the bread’s texture and flavor development.

What’s the purpose of the extra refrigeration?
The refrigeration slows down the fermentation, which enhances the flavor and makes the dough easier to handle.

Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, once baked, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

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Serving Suggestions

• With Butter and Jam: Enjoy a slice with butter and your favorite jam or honey for a simple breakfast.
• As Sandwich Bread: Use this sourdough for sandwiches, paninis, or toast.
• With Soup or Salad: Sourdough bread makes a perfect side for soups, salads, or pasta dishes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy sourdough bread recipe is perfect for beginners and delivers a loaf with a soft crumb and deliciously tangy flavor. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy freshly baked sourdough without a starter. Perfect for a satisfying breakfast, snack, or side dish, this homemade bread is flavorful, rustic, and versatile!