Sourdough Sandwich Bread
Make the best soft crust sourdough sandwich bread with our easy no-knead recipe. This versatile Sourdough Sandwich Bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying simply with butter. With its delightful flavor and soft texture, it’s an ideal choice for family meals, picnics, or a cozy breakfast at home. Follow our simple instructions to create a loaf that will impress everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With minimal hands-on time and no kneading required, this recipe is perfect for beginners.
- Versatile Uses: Enjoy it as sandwich bread, toast it for breakfast, or use it for French toast.
- Delicious Flavor: The natural fermentation from the sourdough starter adds a rich taste that elevates your dishes.
- Soft Crust: Achieve a tender crust that is perfect for slicing without crumbling.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients like flour and sourdough starter, this bread is a wholesome choice.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Sourdough Sandwich Bread, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Dough whisk or wooden spoon
- Clean kitchen towel
- Loaf pan
- Cooking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Dough whisk or wooden spoon: Helps mix the dough thoroughly without overworking it.
- Loaf pan: A must-have for shaping your bread into the perfect sandwich loaf.
- Clean kitchen towel: Keeps the dough covered during resting periods to prevent drying out.
Ingredients
To create your own delicious Sourdough Sandwich Bread, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Dough
- 1/3 cup sourdough starter (65 grams) (discard or fed 12-24 hours prior see notes below)
- 1⅓ cups warm water, filtered (300 grams) (95º to 100º F or baby bottle warm)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (56 grams) (or 2 rounded tablespoons of honey)
- 4 cups bread flour (500 grams) (or all-purpose flour)
- 1½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (20 grams) (or your preferred cooking oil)
- 2 teaspoons fine salt (9 grams)
How to Make Sourdough Sandwich Bread
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
- Add the starter to a large bowl.
- Mix in warm water and sugar until dissolved.
- Stir in flour, oil, and salt using a dough whisk or wooden spoon until you achieve a thick, shaggy dough.
Step 2: Initial Rest
- Flour your hands or wet them.
- Finish mixing the dough by hand until most of the flour is absorbed.
- Cover with a clean, damp kitchen towel and let rest for 30 to 45 minutes.
Step 3: Stretch and Fold
- Coax the dough from the bowl.
- Stretch it about 4 inches then push it down the middle while turning 1/4 turn until you form a circle.
- Return the dough to the bowl, cover again, and let rise at room temperature for 4-12 hours.
Step 4: Shape the Loaf
- Lightly flour your countertop and remove the dough from the bowl.
- Gently stretch it into a rectangle; use your fingers to dimple it to release air.
- Roll up the dough into a log shape and cover; let rest for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Final Rise
- Spray your loaf pan with cooking spray.
- Tighten your dough log by gently pulling it towards you along the countertop for about 5-8 inches before placing in the pan seam side down.
- Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours until about doubled in size.
Step 6: Preheat and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF.
- Optionally brush with an egg wash before baking.
- Bake in center of oven for about 40 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7: Cooling Time
- Remove from oven; after 10 minutes tilt pan to cool on a rack.
- Wait at least one hour before cutting to prevent deflation.
Enjoy your homemade Sourdough Sandwich Bread fresh from the oven!
How to Serve Sourdough Sandwich Bread
Sourdough sandwich bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Whether you’re preparing a classic sandwich or trying something new, there are countless serving options to explore.
Classic Sandwiches
- Turkey and Avocado: Layer sliced turkey, fresh avocado, and lettuce for a filling meal.
- Grilled Cheese: Melt your favorite cheese between two slices of sourdough and grill until golden brown.
- BLT: Combine crispy bacon, lettuce, and ripe tomatoes for a timeless favorite.
Toasts
- Avocado Toast: Smash ripe avocado on toasted sourdough with a sprinkle of salt and chili flakes for added flavor.
- Nut Butter Delight: Spread almond or peanut butter topped with banana slices for a nutritious breakfast option.
- Bruschetta: Top toasted slices with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze for a refreshing appetizer.
French Toast
- Sweet Breakfast Treat: Dip slices in an egg mixture and cook them on the skillet for an indulgent morning dish. Serve with maple syrup or powdered sugar.
Open-faced Sandwiches
- Smoked Salmon: Top sourdough with cream cheese, capers, and smoked salmon for an elegant start to your day.
- Hummus and Veggies: Spread hummus and pile on fresh vegetables like cucumber and bell pepper for a healthy snack.
How to Perfect Sourdough Sandwich Bread
Perfecting sourdough sandwich bread involves a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out wonderfully every time.
- Use Active Starter: Make sure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before using it in the recipe. This ensures proper fermentation.
- Control Water Temperature: Use warm water (95º to 100º F) to encourage yeast activity during the mixing process.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dough to rest adequately during each stage of fermentation. This develops flavor and texture.
- Monitor Rise Time: Keep an eye on the dough’s rise. It should double in size but avoid over-proofing, which can lead to collapse.
- Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. An accurate temperature is crucial for achieving that beautiful crust.
- Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool completely on a rack before cutting into it. This prevents it from becoming gummy inside.
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Sandwich Bread
Sourdough sandwich bread pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:
- Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and vinaigrette makes a light side that balances heavy sandwiches.
- Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips provide a satisfying contrast when served alongside sandwiches for a casual lunch.
- Soup: Enjoy your sourdough with creamy tomato soup or hearty vegetable chowder for a comforting meal combination.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles add zestiness that complements any sandwich beautifully while enhancing flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing bowl of seasonal fruits offers sweetness that pairs nicely with savory sandwiches.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and flavor that works well with grilled meats or classic deli sandwiches.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables bring earthiness that enhances the taste of sourdough bread-based meals.
- Deviled Eggs: These savory bites make an excellent finger food option that pairs well with various types of sandwiches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making sourdough sandwich bread can be a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect Starter Usage: Using an inactive or old sourdough starter can prevent your bread from rising properly. Always use a well-fed starter that has been active for at least 12 hours before baking.
- Ignoring Dough Consistency: Failing to achieve the right dough texture can lead to dense bread. Make sure the dough is thick and shaggy but not overly dry; adjust water as needed.
- Skipping Rest Times: Not allowing the dough to rest adequately can affect flavor and texture. Make sure you follow resting times closely for better results.
- Overproofing the Dough: Letting the dough rise too long can cause it to collapse. Keep an eye on it and use the finger poke test to check readiness before baking.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 375ºF before placing the loaf inside.
- Cutting Too Soon: Slicing the bread before it has cooled can lead to gummy slices. Be patient and wait at least an hour after baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your sourdough sandwich bread in an airtight container or bag for up to 5 days.
- To maintain freshness, wrap it in parchment paper before placing it in a container.
Freezing Sourdough Sandwich Bread
- Slice the loaf before freezing for easy access later.
- Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sourdough Sandwich Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350ºF, wrap bread in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat, add the slice of bread, and toast until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making sourdough sandwich bread.
What is Sourdough Sandwich Bread?
Sourdough sandwich bread is a soft, flavorful loaf made using sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast. It offers a delightful tanginess that enhances sandwiches.
How long does it take to make Sourdough Sandwich Bread?
The total time from start to finish is approximately 14 hours, including resting and rising times. Actual hands-on time is around 60 minutes.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, you can substitute some of the bread flour with whole wheat flour. However, this may change the texture slightly, so consider adding more water if needed.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, check if your sourdough starter is active. It could also be due to temperature; keep your dough in a warm place during fermentation.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough sandwich bread is not only delicious but also versatile for various meals. You can customize it by adding herbs or seeds for extra flavor! Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Sourdough Sandwich Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Discover the joy of baking with our easy no-knead Sourdough Sandwich Bread recipe. This homemade bread features a soft crust and a delightful flavor, making it perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or enjoying with butter. Its versatile nature means it can elevate any meal, from family lunches to cozy breakfasts. With simple instructions and minimal hands-on time, even beginners can create a loaf that impresses friends and family alike. Get ready to savor every slice!
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup sourdough starter (65 grams)
- 1⅓ cups warm water (300 grams)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (56 grams)
- 4 cups bread flour (500 grams)
- 1½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (20 grams)
- 2 teaspoons fine salt (9 grams)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar until dissolved.
- Stir in the flour, olive oil, and salt using a dough whisk or wooden spoon until a thick dough forms.
- Flour your hands and mix by hand until most flour is absorbed; cover with a damp kitchen towel and let rest for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Stretch and fold the dough, covering again for a rise of 4 to 12 hours at room temperature.
- Shape the dough into a log after gently stretching it into a rectangle; let rest for 10 minutes.
- Place in a greased loaf pan and allow it to rise for 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF and bake for about 40 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a rack before slicing.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Homemade
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (40g)
- Calories: 108
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 155mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
