Rustic Sourdough Loaf

Indulge in the rustic charm and artisanal flavours of our Wood-Fired Rustic Sourdough Bread recipe. Crafted with simple ingredients and baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven, this bread boasts a crispy crust, chewy interior, and tangy sourdough flavour. Suitable for all skill levels, this recipe is vegan, vegetarian, and naturally gluten-free, making it a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.

Ingredients

- 500g bread flour
- 350ml lukewarm water
- 100g active sourdough starter
- 10g salt

Recipe

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Make a well in the centre of the flour mixture.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the active sourdough starter with the lukewarm water until well combined.
3. Pour the sourdough starter mixture into the well of the flour mixture. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10-15 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, preheat your wood-fired oven to around 450°F (230°C) with a baking stone or cast iron skillet inside.
7. Punch down the dough to deflate it, then shape it into a round loaf. Place the loaf onto a piece of parchment paper and let it rest for another 30 minutes to an hour.
8. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or razor blade to allow for expansion during baking.
9. Carefully transfer the loaf onto the preheated baking stone or cast iron skillet in the wood-fired oven.
10. Bake the bread for about 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Duration to Cook: Approximately 30-40 minutes.

Chef Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Vegan: Yes

Vegetarian: Yes

Gluten-Free: No

Serving Suggestion

Serve slices of wood-fired rustic sourdough bread warm with your favourite spreads, such as vegan butter, olive oil, or homemade jam. Pair it with soups, salads, or cheese platters for a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy the crusty exterior and soft, tangy interior of this homemade artisan bread.