San Francisco Sourdough French Bread

San Francisco sourdough French bread is a classic recipe that captures the essence of artisanal baking. The tangy flavor of sourdough combined with the crusty exterior and soft, airy interior makes this bread a favorite for many. Recreating this iconic loaf at home is a rewarding experience that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to crafting your own San Francisco sourdough French bread.

San Francisco Sourdough French Bread

Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
– 4 cups bread flour
– 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter and lukewarm water. Stir well to ensure the starter is fully dissolved in the water.

2. Gradually add the bread flour to the mixture, stirring continuously until a shaggy dough forms. It’s okay if the dough looks a bit sticky at this stage.

3. Sprinkle the salt over the dough and continue to knead it in the bowl until the salt is fully incorporated.

4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and begin kneading it for about 10-15 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic as you knead.

5. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for 3-4 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

6. After the first rise, gently deflate the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

7. Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 2-3 hours, or until it has puffed up nicely.

8. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) while the loaf is undergoing its final rise.

9. Just before baking, score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife to create decorative slashes.

10. Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

11. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

San Francisco sourdough French bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a slather of butter or a drizzle of olive oil. The combination of the tangy sourdough flavor and the chewy texture of the crust makes this bread a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside a bowl of soup or using it to make a delicious sandwich, this homemade loaf will surely impress your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands doughy, and indulge in the simple joys of baking your own San Francisco sourdough French bread!