Best Easy Sourdough Baguette Recipe: Tartine
If you’re a fan of sourdough bread and love the crispiness of a baguette, then this recipe is for you! The Tartine sourdough baguette is a classic, and with a few easy steps, you can enjoy this delicious bread at home.
Ingredients:
– 500g all-purpose flour
– 375g water
– 100g sourdough starter
– 10g salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and water. Stir well until there are no dry bits of flour. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to an hour to autolyze.
2. After the autolyze, add the sourdough starter and salt to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
4. Perform a series of stretch and folds every 30 minutes for the next 2 hours. This helps develop gluten in the dough.
5. After the last stretch and fold, let the dough rest for another hour.
6. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and place a baking stone or sheet inside.
7. Divide the dough into three equal portions and shape each portion into a baguette. You can use a bench scraper to help with shaping.
8. Place the shaped baguettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them proof for 30 minutes to an hour.
9. Once the baguettes have proofed, score the tops with a sharp knife or lame.
10. Carefully transfer the baguettes onto the preheated baking stone or sheet in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Remove the baguettes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
FAQs:
1. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute bread flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture of the baguettes may differ slightly.
2. How long should I feed my sourdough starter before using it in this recipe?
It’s recommended to feed your sourdough starter 4-6 hours before using it.
3. Can I add any additional ingredients like herbs or cheese to the dough?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding herbs, cheese, or even olives to the dough.
4. How should I store the baguettes?
To keep them fresh, store the baguettes in a paper bag or bread box at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
5. Can I make smaller or larger baguettes?
Absolutely! Adjust the size of the baguettes according to your preference, but keep in mind that the baking time may vary.
6. Can I use instant yeast instead of sourdough starter?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for the sourdough starter. However, the flavor and texture will be different.
7. Can I proof the baguettes overnight in the refrigerator?
Yes, you can proof the baguettes in the refrigerator overnight for a more complex flavor. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before baking.
8. How do I know if the baguettes are fully proofed?
The baguettes should have visibly increased in size and should spring back slowly when gently pressed with a finger.
9. Can I use a Dutch oven for baking the baguettes?
While a Dutch oven is not traditionally used for baguettes, it can produce great results. Preheat the Dutch oven and place the scored baguettes inside, cover with the lid, and bake according to the recipe.
10. Why do I need to score the baguettes?
Scoring the baguettes allows for the steam to escape during baking and helps with the final shape and appearance of the bread.
11. Can I add steam to the oven while baking?
Yes, adding steam to the oven during the first few minutes of baking helps create a crispy crust. You can do this by placing a pan of hot water on the bottom rack or by spraying water into the oven with a spray bottle.
With this easy Tartine sourdough baguette recipe, you can enjoy the deliciousness of a homemade baguette with a tangy sourdough twist. Experiment with different flavors and sizes, and soon you’ll be enjoying your very own bakery-quality baguettes at home!