Sourdough Tangzhong Sandwich Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 25g (3 tbsp) bread flour
- 120ml (1/2 cup) water
- 100g (1/2 cup) active sourdough starter
- 400g (3 1/3 cups) bread flour
- 240ml (1 cup) milk, lukewarm
- 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 8g (1.5 tsp) salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong
In a small saucepan, whisk together the bread flour and water until no lumps remain. Place over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to a paste consistency. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the bread flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cooled Tangzhong, sourdough starter, and lukewarm milk. Using the dough hook, mix on low speed until the ingredients come together. Add the softened butter and continue mixing on medium speed until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise at room temperature until doubled in size. This can take 4-6 hours depending on your ambient temperature.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Gently deflate the dough and place it on a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a rectangle and roll it tightly into a log. Place the log seam-side down into a greased bread loaf pan. Cover again and let rise until the dough reaches about 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the rim of the pan, approximately 2 hours.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy the bread slightly warm or at room temperature.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve just crafted a delicious Sourdough Tangzhong Sandwich Bread! The harmonious blend of sourdough tang and velvety softness from the Tangzhong will make every slice a delight. Whether you’re using it for sandwiches or enjoying it with a simple spread of butter, this bread is sure to become a household favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with add-ins like seeds or herbs to make this recipe uniquely yours. Happy baking!
