Sourdough bread is a beloved staple in our home. With its distinctive tangy flavor and chewy texture, it’s no wonder why sourdough has gained such popularity. It’s always fun to switch things up a bit by adding in some inclusions.
What are inclusions?
Inclusions are ingredients that can be incorporated into the bread dough to add extra flavor, texture, and visual appeal. They can range from simple additions like herbs and spices to more complex ones like nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or even bits of cheese. The possibilities are endless and can be tailored to your personal taste preferences.
How to add inclusions to your sourdough bread.
To add inclusions to your sourdough bread, follow these simple steps:
- Prepare your sourdough dough as usual, following my foolproof sourdough bread recipe. Make sure the dough has completed its bulk fermentation and is ready for shaping.
- Flatten the dough gently with your hands on a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle your chosen inclusions evenly over the dough. You can experiment with different combinations of ingredients to create unique flavor profiles. Then roll, sprinkle in ingredients, roll, sprinkle in ingredients, roll, until you have a “log” shape. If you are using bulky ingredients like nuts or dried fruit, I recommend adding this to just the first layer. As you roll the dough, make sure to add other fine type ingredients. This how to make sure you get a nice swirl when you slice it open. I have many
- CAREFULLY shape the dough into your preferred loaf shape. The added ingredients can make the dough very fragile and prone to breaking apart so handle it very gently. Place it in a banneton allowing it to rise for the final proofing. I always cold proof my bread in the fridge over night.
- The following morning, bake your bread as you would normally. You may need to adjust the baking time based on the inclusions added.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and get creative with your sourdough bread. With the addition of inclusions, you’ll be able to transform your homemade loaves into something truly extraordinary. Happy baking!