Ah, sourdough—the delightful alchemy of flour, water, and wild yeast! 🍞✨ There’s something magical about nurturing a starter, watching it bubble and grow, and then transforming it into a crusty, tangy loaf. Let me share some reasons why baking sourdough brings joy and pleasure.
This Must Try Tangy Jalapeno Cheddar Sourdough Bread Recipe Will Win You Over!
- Connection to Tradition: Sourdough has been around for centuries. When you bake it, you’re participating in a timeless tradition—a link to bakers from long ago.
- The Starter: Your sourdough starter becomes a living entity. You feed it, care for it, and it rewards you with leavening power. It’s like having a pet that helps you bake!
- Patience and Anticipation: Sourdough teaches patience. The slow fermentation process—hours or even days—builds anticipation. The aroma as it bakes is pure anticipation fulfilled.
- Art and Science: Baking sourdough is both art and science. You learn about hydration, gluten development, and fermentation. Yet, there’s room for creativity—shaping, scoring, and experimenting with flavors.
- Crust and Crumb: Achieving that crackling crust and an open, chewy crumb feels like a triumph. Each loaf is unique, influenced by temperature, hydration, and your touch.
- Sharing and Community: Sourdough brings people together. Sharing a warm loaf with loved ones or neighbors fosters connection. Plus, there’s a global community of sourdough enthusiasts!
- Versatility: Sourdough isn’t limited to bread. You can make pancakes, waffles, pizza crusts, and more. It’s a versatile canvas for culinary exploration.
Baking can indeed be a delightful and relaxing activity! Whether you’re kneading dough, measuring ingredients, or watching your creation rise in the oven, it’s a wonderful way to unwind. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked goods filling your home is simply magical. 😊
So, embrace the joy of sourdough! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, each loaf is a small victory—a tangible reminder that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Happy baking! 🌟🥖
Must Try Tangy Jalapeno Cheddar Sourdough Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1 and 1/2 cups warm water
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2-3 jalapeños finely chopped (adjust to taste) or use the tamed jarred jalapeno peppers for less heat
Shop everything you need to make the perfect sourdough bread!
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and 2 cups of bread flour. Mix well.
- Add the remaining flour and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven or baking dish inside to heat.
- Punch down the dough and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- Score the loaf and place in the preheated Dutch oven.
- Cover with the lid and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying!
Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños. Enjoy your homemade Jalapeño Cheddar Sourdough bread! 🍞🌶️
I want to thank each one of you for visiting and being a part of this online family. I love connecting and hearing what your thoughts are. Drop a comment below. Do you love baking healthy breads? Have you tried baking sourdough? You have all the support here that you need to get started. Drop a note with comments or questions. I read and I do respond to all of them.
XOXO, Rebecca, owner, bestofrebeccaphillips.com and ryoureadytoorganize.com