Rye Bread from Sourdough Starters
Ingredients
- 150g (1/2 cup) active sourdough starter
- 300ml (1 1/4 cup) lukewarm water
- 250g (2 cups) rye flour
- 200g (1 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour
- 10g (2 tsp) sea salt
- 10g (1 tbsp) caraway seeds (optional)
Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey into the world of artisanal baking with our Rye Bread using a sourdough starter. There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting a loaf from simple ingredients, all while embracing the traditional art of sourdough. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the robust flavor and chewy texture of a well-made rye bread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just beginning, this recipe will guide you through each step with ease.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen scale
- Bowl scraper
- Dutch oven or baking sheet
- Clean, damp kitchen towel
- Proofing basket (optional)
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 4 hours (including rise time of 3 hours)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter with lukewarm water. Stir until the starter is fully dissolved in the water. Add the rye flour, all-purpose flour, and sea salt into the bowl. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be sticky and slightly lumpy. If you prefer, add caraway seeds at this stage for additional flavor.
Step 2: Autolyse
Allow the flour to absorb the water and begin the gluten formation by letting the dough rest for 30 minutes. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out.
Step 3: Stretch and Fold
Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then perform a series of stretches and folds. Lift a corner of the dough and fold it over the center. Rotate the bowl and repeat with the other corners. This should be done 3 to 4 times every 30 minutes over the course of the first hour and a half.
Step 4: Bulk Fermentation
Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for about 3 hours until it has approximately doubled in size. The temperature and activity of your starter can influence the rise time.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and gently turn the dough out. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preferred shape and baking vessel. Place it seam-side up in a floured proofing basket or on a piece of parchment paper, then cover with a towel.
Step 6: Final Proof
Let the loaf sit at room temperature until it looks slightly puffed, about 30 to 45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 240°C (450°F). If using a Dutch oven, preheat it as well.
Step 7: Baking
Carefully place the loaf into the preheated Dutch oven or onto a baking sheet. Score the top with a sharp knife or lame to allow steam to escape. Cover with the lid and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the lid and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is deeply browned and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Conclusion
Congratulations on baking your own Rye Bread with a sourdough starter! The earthy, complex flavors and chewy texture of the bread are rewards well worth the effort. Enjoy your creation sliced with your favorite spreads or simply on its own to savor the natural richness. Experimenting with sourdough starters can be both challenging and immensely satisfying, opening new dimensions in your baking repertoire. Share your bread with loved ones and take pride in the joy you bring through your homemade loaf.
