4‑Ingredient Classic Sourdough Bread – No Starter Needed ✨

Ingredients

• • 3 ⅞ cups (400g) bread flour
• • 1 ⅞ cups (360ml) lukewarm water
• • 1 ⅞ tsp salt
• • 2 ⅞ tsp quick-rise yeast alternative

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add water and yeast alternative. Mix until no dry flour remains.

2. 2

   Cover and let rest 20 minutes. This autolyse step hydrates the flour for better gluten development.

3. 3

   Gently stretch dough and fold in half. Repeat 3 times. This develops gluten without kneading.

4. 4

   Turn onto a floured surface. Shape into a round loaf by tucking edges under. Let rest 10 minutes.

5. 5

   Place in a floured proofing basket or bowl. Cover and let rise 45 minutes at room temperature.

6. 6

   Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) with a Dutch oven inside. Score loaf and bake 20 minutes. Reduce heat to 450°F (230°C) and bake 20-25 minutes more until golden.

7. 7

   Let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This prevents gummy texture.