Ballerina Farm Sourdough Bread Recipe

Kate Bagshaw

15 Aug, 2023

Ballerina Farm sourdough bread is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a delicious, healthy, and artisanal bread with a unique flavor and texture.

Ballerina Farm Sourdough Bread

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: American
Category: Dessert
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Resting/rising Time: 4 - 6 hours
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 130 calories

About this recipe

Ballerina Farm sourdough bread is a delicious, rustic-style bread that is made using a natural sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast. This type of bread is highly valued for its unique flavor, texture, and health benefits.

The natural sourdough starter used in Ballerina Farm sourdough bread is a mixture of flour and water that has been allowed to ferment over several days, allowing wild yeast and beneficial bacteria to develop.

This fermentation process not only creates a distinct flavor and aroma but also helps to break down gluten and other complex carbohydrates, making the bread more digestible.

To make Ballerina Farm sourdough bread, a combination of strong white bread flour and wholemeal bread flour is typically used, along with the sourdough starter, water, and salt.

The dough is mixed and then left to rest for a short period before kneading, shaping, and undergoing a long, slow fermentation period of up to 6 hours. This slow fermentation allows the flavors to develop and gives the bread its signature texture.

When it's time to bake, the dough is carefully transferred into a hot pot or Dutch oven, and then baked in a hot oven. The pot helps to trap steam and creates a moist environment, resulting in a perfectly crispy crust and a soft, airy interior.

Ballerina Farm sourdough bread is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. The natural fermentation process increases the bread's nutritional value by increasing the availability of important vitamins and minerals.

Additionally, the slow fermentation process and lack of preservatives or additives make it a healthier option than many commercially produced breads.

Ballerina Farm Sourdough Bread recipe background

Particularly, I don't have access to the specific origin of Ballerina Farm sourdough bread recipe. However, sourdough bread itself has a long and fascinating history.

Sourdough bread is one of the oldest forms of leavened bread, dating back thousands of years. Historically, sourdough was used as a way to make bread rise before commercial yeast was available. The process of fermenting flour and water allowed naturally occurring wild yeast and bacteria to grow, which provided the necessary rise for the bread.

Sourdough bread became particularly popular in San Francisco during the Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. The sourdough culture was brought to the city by French bakers, and it quickly became a staple food for miners and settlers.

Today, sourdough bread remains popular all over the world and is often prized for its unique flavor and texture. Many bakers, like those at Ballerina Farm, have developed their own unique recipes and techniques for making sourdough bread, resulting in a wide variety of styles and flavors.

Why make this recipe?

The Ballerina Farm sourdough bread recipe is a delicious, healthy, and artisanal bread that is hard to resist. If you are a bread lover or simply want to try something new and rewarding in the kitchen, this recipe is definitely worth a try!

But don't just take my words for it, see reasons why you really should try this recipe.

Delicious, unique flavor: The natural fermentation process of sourdough bread results in a distinct, tangy flavor that is hard to replicate with other breads. The combination of white and wholemeal flour used in the Ballerina Farm recipe gives the bread a nutty and slightly sweet taste that complements the sourness perfectly.
Health benefits: Unlike commercial bread made with commercial yeast and other additives, sourdough bread is naturally fermented, which makes it more nutritious and easier to digest. The fermentation process helps break down gluten and other complex carbohydrates, making it a healthier option for people with gluten sensitivities or digestive issues.
Artisanal quality: The Ballerina Farm sourdough bread recipe is a true artisanal bread, meaning it is handmade using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients. Making your own bread from scratch is a rewarding and fulfilling experience that can help you connect with your food and appreciate the work that goes into making it.
Versatile: Ballerina Farm sourdough bread is a versatile bread that can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches and toast to bread pudding and croutons.

What does Ballerina Farm Sourdough Bread taste like?

Ballerina Farm sourdough bread has a distinctive, tangy flavor that is characteristic of sourdough breads. The natural fermentation process gives the bread a slight sourness, but the flavor is not overpowering or too acidic.

The bread also has a subtle sweetness and nuttiness from the combination of white and wholemeal flour used in the recipe. The crust of the bread is crispy and crunchy, while the interior is soft and airy with a slightly chewy texture.

Or let me put it this way, Ballerina Farm sourdough bread has a complex and nuanced flavor profile that is hard to describe but highly addictive. The combination of tanginess, sweetness, and nuttiness makes it a versatile bread that pairs well with a wide range of toppings and accompaniments.

What is in Ballerina Farm Sourdough Bread?

Strong white bread flour: This is a high-protein flour that gives the bread its structure and chewiness.
Wholemeal bread flour: This flour adds flavor and texture to the bread and also contains more nutrients than white flour.
Sourdough starter: This is a mixture of flour and water that has been fermented over several days. It provides the natural leavening for the bread and also adds flavor and nutrition.
Water: Water is added to the dough to hydrate the flour and make it easier to work with.
Salt: Salt adds flavor to the bread and also helps to regulate the fermentation process.

That's it! The Ballerina Farm sourdough bread recipe is a simple but delicious bread that can be made with just a few high-quality ingredients.

Equipment required for this recipe

The equipment needed for the Ballerina Farm sourdough bread recipe are:

Large mixing bowl: This is used to mix the ingredients and allow the dough to rise. A large mixing bowl with a lid is ideal, but any bowl that is big enough to accommodate the dough will work.
Dutch oven or baking stone: A Dutch oven or baking stone is used to bake the bread and help create a crispy crust. If you don't have a Dutch oven, you can use a large pot with a lid or a baking sheet with a rim. If you don't have a baking stone, you can use a baking sheet.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line the Dutch oven or baking stone and prevent the bread from sticking. If you don't have parchment paper, you can use cornmeal or flour instead.
Kitchen scale: A kitchen scale is used to weigh the ingredients accurately. If you don't have a kitchen scale, you can use measuring cups and spoons instead, but keep in mind that the measurements may not be as precise.
Plastic wrap or cloth: Plastic wrap or a cloth is used to cover the dough while it rises. If you don't have plastic wrap, you can use a cloth or a tea towel.
Razor blade or sharp knife: A razor blade or sharp knife is used to score the dough before baking. If you don't have a razor blade or sharp knife, you can use a pair of scissors or a serrated knife.

The equipment needed for the Ballerina Farm sourdough bread recipe is relatively simple and can be easily substituted with items that you may already have in your kitchen.

How to make Ballerina Farm Sourdough Bread

Ready for a delicious and wholesome sourdough bread recipe? Try the Ballerina Farm sourdough bread recipe! With its tangy flavor, crispy crust, and soft texture, this bread is perfect for any occasion. Follow our easy recipe and tips to make your own artisanal loaf at home.

Ingredients

400g strong white bread flour
100g wholemeal bread flour
300g sourdough starter (100% hydration)
300ml warm water
2 tsp salt

Instructions to follow

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sourdough starter, and warm water. Mix well until a shaggy dough forms.
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
Add the salt to the dough and knead for 10-15 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a large, oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F/Gas Mark 7. Place a cast iron pot with a lid in the oven and let it heat up for at least 30 minutes.
Once the dough has risen, carefully transfer it to the hot pot. Use a sharp knife to score the top of the dough.
Place the lid on the pot and bake for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the lid from the pot and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Remove the bread from the pot and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

How do you serve Ballerina Farm Sourdough Bread recipe?

Once your Ballerina Farm sourdough bread is baked and cooled, it's time to serve and enjoy it! Here are some steps to follow:

Slice the bread: Use a sharp bread knife to slice the bread into thick or thin slices, depending on your preference.
Add toppings: Sourdough bread pairs well with a variety of toppings, such as butter, jam, honey, cheese, or avocado.
Toast the bread: If you prefer your bread toasted, place it in a toaster or under the broiler until it's crispy and golden brown.
Serve and enjoy: Arrange the bread slices on a plate or board and serve them with your desired toppings. Enjoy your delicious and homemade Ballerina Farm sourdough bread!

Note: Since sourdough bread is a natural and artisanal product, each loaf may have slight variations in flavor and texture. Embrace the unique qualities of your bread and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade sourdough.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 613 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Ballerina Farm Sourdough Bread, Ballerina Farm Sourdough Bread Recipe, Sourdough bread, Sourdough, bread, Recipe

What to serve with?

Ballerina Farm sourdough bread is a versatile bread that pairs well with a variety of dishes. I have some ideas for what you can serve with your homemade bread:

Soup: Sourdough bread is perfect for dipping in soups, such as tomato soup, minestrone, or lentil soup.
Cheese: Pair your bread with your favorite cheese for a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer. Soft cheeses like brie and goat cheese or hard cheeses like cheddar and Gouda go particularly well with sourdough bread.
Salad: Sourdough bread is a great addition to any salad, particularly those with hearty greens like kale or arugula.
Charcuterie: Create a charcuterie board with cured meats, olives, nuts, and your favorite dips for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer.
Sandwiches: Use your homemade sourdough bread to make your favorite sandwich. Some classic options include turkey and avocado, grilled cheese, or BLT.

Remember, the options are endless when it comes to serving Ballerina Farm sourdough bread. Experiment with different flavors and pairings to find what works best for you.

My recommendations and tips for you

Be patient: Sourdough bread requires a longer fermentation process than commercial yeast breads. Allow enough time for the dough to rise and for the flavors to develop.
Use high-quality ingredients: Since the recipe is relatively simple, using high-quality ingredients will make a big difference in the final product. Invest in high-quality flours and make sure to use filtered water.
Follow the recipe closely: Sourdough bread-making can be a bit tricky, so make sure to follow the recipe closely and pay attention to the details. Weigh the ingredients accurately and keep an eye on the dough as it rises and ferments.
Experiment with the fermentation time and temperature: Depending on the ambient temperature and the strength of your sourdough starter, the fermentation time and temperature may need to be adjusted. Experiment with different times and temperatures to find what works best for you.
Don't be afraid to score the dough: Scoring the dough before baking helps it expand and creates a beautiful pattern on the crust. Use a sharp razor blade or knife to make shallow cuts on the surface of the dough.
Enjoy the process: Making sourdough bread can be a meditative and rewarding experience. Enjoy the process and take pride in creating a delicious loaf of bread from scratch.

I hope these recommendations and tips help you make a successful batch of Ballerina Farm sourdough bread. Good luck and happy baking!

How to store Ballerina Farm Sourdough Bread

Proper storage is important to maintain the freshness and texture of your Ballerina Farm sourdough bread. Here are some tips for storing your bread:

Cool the bread completely: Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This helps to prevent condensation and keep the crust crispy.
Store at room temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within a day or two, store it at room temperature in a bread box or a paper bag. Avoid storing the bread in plastic bags, as this can create moisture and make the crust soggy.
Freeze for longer storage: If you want to store the bread for a longer period, freeze it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Sourdough bread freezes well and can be thawed at room temperature or in the oven.
Reheat before serving: If you are eating frozen bread, be sure to thaw it completely and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the crust.

Remember, sourdough bread is best eaten fresh, so try to consume it within a few days of baking. Proper storage can help extend its shelf life and maintain its quality.

Potential ingredients substitutes

While the original recipe calls for specific ingredients, here are some substitutes you can try if you don't have all of the necessary ingredients on hand:

Bread flour substitute: If you don't have bread flour, you can use all-purpose flour instead. However, keep in mind that all-purpose flour has a lower protein content than bread flour, which may affect the structure and texture of the bread.
Whole wheat flour substitute: If you don't have whole wheat flour, you can use any other type of whole grain flour such as rye flour, spelt flour, or barley flour.
Sourdough starter substitute: If you don't have a sourdough starter, you can make a substitute by mixing equal parts flour and water and allowing it to ferment for several days until it becomes bubbly and sour. Alternatively, you can use commercial yeast instead, but keep in mind that this will result in a different flavor and texture.
Salt substitute: If you don't have salt, you can omit it, but keep in mind that salt not only adds flavor but also helps to regulate the fermentation process and prevent the bread from over-proofing.
Water substitute: Use filtered or bottled water if possible. If you don't have access to these, tap water can be used but be sure to let it sit out for a few hours to allow any chlorine to dissipate.

While these substitutes may affect the flavor and texture of the bread slightly, they can still produce a delicious loaf of bread.

Final Remarks

In conclusion, Ballerina Farm sourdough bread is a delicious and wholesome bread that you can easily make in your own kitchen. With its tangy and complex flavor, crispy crust, and soft and chewy texture, this bread is sure to impress your family and friends.

By following the recipe and tips provided, you can create your own artisanal loaf of sourdough bread that's perfect for any occasion. From toast in the morning to sandwiches for lunch, and soup or salad for dinner, this bread is a versatile and tasty addition to any meal.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and experience the joys of homemade sourdough bread for yourself. You won't be disappointed!