A favourite bread comes from sourdough. This is not purely because of its tangy property. The reason, too, is its gratifying crust. Most of us believe that sourdough is a single recipe. But the truth is that sourdoughs come in many varieties. These kinds do not merely differ in flavour. They even vary in texture and shape. This sourdough bread guide will help you learn about the various varieties of sourdough bread. And to top it off, you will watch how to create them at home.
Different Types of Sourdough Bread and How to Bake Them
There are many kinds of sourdough bread. They possess their own characteristics. New to baking? Or do you feel like adding to your dough repertoire? Below are some typical varieties of sourdough bread and their baking instructions:
- Classic White Sourdough
This is the classic sourdough bread. It is not just crisp and golden-brown on the crust. It is also chewy and airy in the crumb. All you need to bake this is a simple combination of white flour, water, and salt. The dough may then be left to ferment (between 8-12 hours) to form flavour. This happens before baking it in a steam-infused oven with a crisp crust.
- Rye Sourdough
Sourdough bread also has a more coarse flavour. This is because rye flour is available. In order to bake rye sourdough, the percentage of rye flour should be high. A little white flour can also be added. This will ensure that the dough rises well. Sourdough rye is denser. Therefore, it might need more time to rise.
- Sourdough Boule
Boule is a round, rough-looking sourdough. To make this, roll the dough into a round ball. Then, bake it in a Dutch oven. This enclosed space is known to trap steam. This contributes to the bread having a crunchy interior.
- Sourdough Bâtard
A bâtard is somewhat longer and oval-shaped sourdough bread than the boule. To prepare this, roll your dough into an oval. Then, bake it on a baking tray in the oven preheated. This form gives an airy crumb.
- Sourdough Focaccia
Focaccia is a flat bread. Its sourdough is not just characterised by light edges. It is also characterised by crisp edges. To prepare sourdough focaccia, press the dough into a pan with oil. Then, sprinkle with your preferred flavour. This dough rises well. Plus, it produces tender bread.
- Flavoured Sourdough
Flavoured sourdough options provide a unique spin on the classic loaf. Contact your preferred flavourings after the initial rise. Then, incorporate them into the dough before moulding. Bake as with any other sourdough bread. But remember to adjust the baking time. This should be according to the added ingredients.
The bottom line is that there are several types of sourdough bread. Using time-tested recipes helps a lot. Doing so will enable you to discover new favourites. It takes time in this sourdough bread tutorial. But you will soon be on your way to producing flawless loaves each time.