Grandma Paylor'S Sourdough Bread
A classic homemade sourdough bread with a tangy flavor, chewy crust, and soft interior, perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or as a hearty accompaniment for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix warm water, sugar, salt, yeast, and flour together to create the initial starter.
- Let the mixture stand covered until it becomes bubbly.
- Remove 2 to 3 large tablespoons of starter and place in a clean jar with a loose-fitting lid; store in the refrigerator.
- This stored starter will replace commercial yeast in future batches.
- Add 1/2 or 2/3 cup shortening or bacon grease to the remaining starter, then add flour until the dough is stiff.
- Grease a bowl, place the dough inside, and grease the top of the bread dough.
- Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough and let it rise again.
- Shape the dough into loaves and let them rise.
- Bake the loaves at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use high-protein bread flour instead of all-purpose flour to achieve a chewier texture. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs or garlic powder to the dough. Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise. Patience is key; allowing the dough to rise properly will yield a better loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This sourdough bread pairs beautifully with butter and jam or as a base for sandwiches. Serve it alongside a hearty soup or salad for a complete meal. For a delightful breakfast, toast slices and top with avocado or your choice of spreads. It also complements dishes like Nancy's Barbecue perfectly, making it a versatile addition to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then foil, placing it in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, slice and toast or wrap the whole loaf in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Paylor'S Sourdough Bread contains roughly 364 calories, with 20g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and protein (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for white flour, but it may yield a denser loaf. Consider using a blend of both for a lighter texture. Additionally, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly since whole wheat absorbs more moisture.
How can I tell if my dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has roughly doubled in size and feels puffy. You can also perform the 'poke test'; gently poke the dough with a finger and if the indentation remains, it's ready for the next step. If it springs back quickly, it needs more time to rise.
What should I do if my bread doesn't rise?
If your bread doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that your water is warm but not too hot, as extreme temperatures can kill the yeast. Consider placing the dough in a warmer spot to encourage rising.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).