Artisan Sourdough Bread: A Rustic Favorite

Ingredients:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
• 2 cups lukewarm water
• 4 cups bread flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter and lukewarm water. Add the bread flour and salt, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for about 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the dough: Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place the loaf on a piece of parchment paper and let it rise for another 2-3 hours, or until it doubles in size again.
5. Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven or baking stone inside.
6. Bake the bread: Once the oven is preheated, carefully transfer the risen dough to the hot Dutch oven or baking stone. Slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife and cover the Dutch oven with its lid.
7. Bake covered: Bake the bread covered for 20 minutes, then remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade artisan sourdough bread with butter, olive oil, or your favorite toppings.