Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home, bringing a sense of warmth and comfort to your kitchen. If you’re a fan of traditional handmade bread, then our recipe for Rustic Country Sourdough Bread is sure to become a staple in your household. This recipe captures the essence of rustic bread-making, with a crunchy crust and a soft, airy interior that’s perfect for enjoying on its own or as a side to your favorite meals.
**Rustic Country Sourdough Bread**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
– 2 tsp salt
– Olive oil (for greasing)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter and lukewarm water. Stir gently to mix them well.
2. Add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to combine the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Once the dough comes together, use your hands to knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 10-15 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough back in the mixing bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rest at room temperature for about 4-6 hours or until it has doubled in size. The time may vary based on the room temperature and humidity.
5. After the dough has risen, gently deflate it and shape it into a round loaf. Place the loaf on a floured baking sheet or proofing basket.
6. Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it proof for another 2-3 hours until it has puffed up slightly.
7. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a cast-iron pot with a lid inside to preheat as well.
8. Once the oven is ready, carefully remove the preheated pot. Brush the surface of the dough with some olive oil and score it with a sharp knife to allow for expansion during baking.
9. Place the dough in the preheated pot, cover it with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
10. Once baked, remove the pot from the oven and transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Enjoy the delightful aromas that will fill your kitchen as this rustic country sourdough bread bakes to perfection. Whether you slice it thick and spread it with butter or use it to sop up savory soups and stews, this bread is a versatile treat that will impress your family and friends. Be sure to savor each bite of this homemade goodness, knowing that you’ve created a true masterpiece of artisanal bread right in your own kitchen.
