“Unloaf” Sourdough Bread (Rule‑Breaker Style)
Introduction
Sourdough has a reputation for being fussy: feed your starter, stretch and fold, refrigerate overnight, preheat your Dutch oven. But what if you could skip all that and still get a loaf with a golden crust and tender crumb? That’s the beauty of Unloaf Sourdough.
This method works with any stage of starter, requires no stretch‑and‑folds, and can be baked straight from the counter. It’s the simplest sourdough ever — perfect for beginners or anyone craving homemade bread without the fuss.
Ingredients
165g unfed sourdough starter
400g warm water
650g bread flour
15g sea salt
Instructions
Mix all ingredients until combined.
Bulk ferment on the counter for 3–12 hours, depending on room temperature.
Shape into loaves and let rest for 1 hour.
Optional cold proof: Refrigerate up to 15 hours for deeper flavor.
Score dough and place into a cold Dutch oven, inside a cold oven.
Bake covered at 450°F for 1 hour.
Finish uncovered at 425°F for 10–15 minutes until golden brown.
Why It Works
Unfed starter: Even sluggish starter contributes flavor and fermentation.
No folds: The long bulk ferment develops gluten naturally.
Cold oven start: Eliminates preheating stress and still delivers a crisp crust.
Tips for Success
Adjust ferment time based on your kitchen’s warmth.
Use a sharp blade for scoring to help the loaf expand.
For extra flavor, try the optional cold proof overnight.
Bake two loaves from this batch — one to enjoy fresh, one to freeze.
Variations
Seeded Unloaf: Add sunflower or sesame seeds to the dough.
Whole Wheat Twist: Replace 150g of bread flour with whole wheat.
Herb Loaf: Mix in rosemary or thyme for savory notes.
Cheesy Crust: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking uncovered.
Serving Ideas
Slice warm with butter for breakfast.
Pair with soups and stews.
Toast for sandwiches or bruschetta.
Cube for homemade croutons.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store in a bread bag for 2–3 days.
Freezer: Freeze sliced loaf for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm slices in oven or toaster for fresh‑baked taste.
Conclusion
This Unloaf Sourdough Bread proves that sourdough doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect recipe for busy bakers, beginners, or anyone who loves the rustic charm of homemade bread.