a simple and effective step-by-step recipe to make homemade sourdough bread. This method requires minimal hands-on time but does involve planning, as fermentation can take time.

Ingredients:
- Active Sourdough Starter: 50-100 g
- Warm Water: 375 g (about 1 ½ cups)
- Bread Flour: 500 g (approximately 4 cups)
- Salt: 9-12 g (about 1.5-2.5 teaspoons)
Equipment Needed:
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Dutch Oven or baking stone
- Parchment Paper
- Dough Scraper
Instructions:
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the active sourdough starter and warm water. Mix well.
- Add the bread flour and salt to the bowl, stirring to combine using your hands or a spoon until a rough dough forms1.
- Autolyse (Rest) Phase:
- Cover the bowl with a damp towel and allow it to rest for 30 minutes. This step helps to hydrate the flour3.
- Stretch and Fold:
- After the autolyse, perform a series of stretch and folds. Grab a corner of the dough, stretch it up, and fold it over itself. Do this around the bowl for 3 sets at 30-minute intervals over the first 2 hours2.
- Bulk Fermentation:
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot for about 8 to 12 hours, or until the dough has increased by about 50% in volume4.
- Shape the Dough:
- Carefully turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Shape it into a round loaf. Place it seam side up in a floured banneton or bowl.3
- Proofing:
- Cover the shaped dough with a towel and place it in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours. This cold proofing step enhances the flavor5.
- Preheat Dutch Oven:
- About one hour before baking, place your Dutch oven in the oven and preheat it to 450°F (232°C)6.
- Bake:
- Remove the dough from the fridge. Carefully turn it onto a piece of parchment paper. Score the top with a sharp knife or lame.
- Transfer the dough (with parchment) into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes7.
- Final Bake:
- Remove the lid and lower the temperature to 400°F (204°C). Bake for another 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown8.
- Cool:
- Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing9.

Tips for Success:
- Make sure your starter is bubbly and active before use.
- Use a digital scale for accurate measurements.
- Adjust proofing times based on your kitchen temperature5.
This recipe allows you to create a delicious, homemade sourdough loaf with a crispy crust and airy crumb. Enjoy your baking journey!
References:
- Alexandra’s Kitchen
- The Clever Carrot
- Farmhouse on Boone
- Amy Bakes Bread
- The Kitchn
- Pantry Mama
- Alexandra Cooks
- Farmhouse on Boone
- The Clever Carrot