Sourdough Bread Made Easy: Tips from Kate Freebairn

A loaf of sourdough bread can take up to three days to make, but that doesn’t mean you’ll spend all that time actively working on it. Kate Freebairn, a sourdough recipe developer and food blogger from rural Western Australia, aims to change the perception that sourdough baking consumes your life.

Breaking Down the Process

Freebairn points out that while the entire process might span days, the actual hands-on time may only be about an hour. Her new cookbook, Easy Sourdough on Any Schedule, emphasizes incorporating bread baking into everyday routines. For someone with a typical weekday schedule, she suggests simple adjustments: feed the starter before bed, mix dough in the morning, and let it ferment while you work. Shape it at night, refrigerate, and bake the next morning for a fresh loaf.

Health Benefits of Sourdough

Freebairn highlights the health advantages of sourdough. The natural fermentation process involves microbes that aid digestion, potentially avoiding spikes in blood sugar. Sourdough is rich in prebiotics that benefit gut health. Additionally, she believes it simply tastes better.

No Need for Fancy Equipment

Beginners can start sourdough without specialized tools. Freebairn suggests using an old pickle jar for the starter and a regular bowl instead of a proofing basket. Her Dutch oven, bought for $30 at Aldi, is proof that expensive equipment isn’t necessary.

Embrace Patience and Imperfection

Patience is a key ingredient. Freebairn advises beginners to expect some initial imperfections. It may take several attempts to master sourdough baking, but each loaf provides valuable lessons. Her approach is to start with what’s available, integrate it with your lifestyle, and accept that perfection isn’t immediate.

Easy Sourdough on Any Schedule is set for release in September. The book offers insights into making sourdough approachable and compatible with busy lives.

Peter Burke is a lifestyle editor at Fox News Digital, covering various topics with a focus on food and drink.