Baking sourdough bread at home has grown in popularity over the past few years, and for good reason. With its signature tang, chewy texture and golden crust, sourdough is both delicious and rewarding to make. While every baker develops their own rhythm and preferences, there are a few tried-and-true techniques that can help ensure your loaves turn out well every time. Here are five tips to help you along your sourdough journey.
1. Keep your starter strong
A healthy starter is the foundation of good sourdough. Feed it regularly with flour and water, and keep it at a consistent temperature. A strong starter should double in size within four to six hours after feeding and have a bubbly, slightly tangy aroma.
2. Use quality flour
The type of flour you use makes a difference. Hard red winter wheat flour, grown widely in Oklahoma, is prized for its protein content and strength, which helps sourdough develop good structure and volume. Mixing whole wheat with bread flour can add flavor and nutrition, while still keeping a nice rise.
3. Practice patience with fermentation
Sourdough requires time for the natural yeast and bacteria to work. Resist the urge to rush the bulk fermentation stage — this is where much of the flavor and texture develop. Depending on temperature, it can take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours. Watch the dough, not the clock.
4. Develop gluten with stretch and folds
Instead of heavy kneading, many sourdough bakers use the stretch-and-fold method. Every 30 to 45 minutes during bulk fermentation, gently stretch the dough and fold it over itself. This builds strength in the dough while keeping the crumb open and airy.
5. Score for beauty and function
Right before baking, use a sharp blade to score the dough. This not only creates beautiful designs but also gives the loaf a place to expand in the oven. Without scoring, the bread may split unpredictably.
Bringing it all together
Sourdough baking is as much art as it is science. Each loaf you bake teaches you something new about your starter, your flour and your kitchen environment. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, these tips can help you create bread that’s flavorful, nourishing and uniquely your own.
Sourdough is more than just bread — it’s a process that connects us to timeless traditions and brings comfort to the table. The reward isn’t only in the golden crust or the tangy bite, but in the joy of sharing it fresh from the oven with family and friends.
