Sourdough bread from a starter has a crisp, crackling crust, an open, chewy crumb and a gentle tang. It’s made with just starter, bread flour, water and salt, and a long, slow fermentation.
Tips for a Great Loaf
Use an active starter fed 4 to 8 hours earlier that has doubled and is bubbly. Mix, rest, then stretch and fold the dough a few times during the first rise to build strength. A long, cool rise develops flavor. Bake in a preheated Dutch oven, covered first to trap steam, then uncovered to brown the crust.
Kosher Notes
Sourdough made with water and oil is pareve, so it can be served with any meal. When baking a large enough quantity of dough (usually starting around 2.5 pounds of flour), the mitzvah of separating challah applies; ask your rabbi about amounts and the blessing.
Storing
Keep the loaf wrapped in a towel for 2 to 3 days, or slice and freeze for 3 months.

Ingredients
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- Dutch ovenSee it on Amazon
- Rimmed baking sheetSee it on Amazon
- Cooling rackSee it on Amazon
- Parchment paperSee it on Amazon
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Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter with warm water. Stir until well mixed and slightly foamy.
- Add the bread flour and kosher salt to the bowl. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it looks rough at this stage.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly sticky but not wet.
- Place the dough in a large bowl greased with olive oil, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a damp kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 4-6 hours, until doubled in size.
- Gently punch down the dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Shape into a round loaf by tucking the edges under and rotating the dough.
- Place the shaped loaf seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise for 2-3 hours, until puffy and increased in size by about 50%.
- About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 450°F. Place a small oven-safe dish filled with water on the bottom rack to create steam.
- Using a sharp knife or razor blade, score the top of the loaf with a deep slash about 1/2 inch deep. This allows the bread to expand properly during baking.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Internal temperature should reach 190-200°F.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing, at least 1 hour. This allows the crumb to set properly.
Notes
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