10 Unique Sourdough Bread Variations For Your Next Bake
Sourdough bread is a timeless classic, but sticking to just one style isn’t necessary. Its tangy flavor and versatile texture are the perfect base for a range of exciting variations. From hearty whole wheat to savory garlic and herb, these 10 sourdough bread ideas will inspire you to explore new flavors and textures. Dive in and discover how to elevate your sourdough game with these creative and delicious options!
Whole Wheat Sourdough
What It’s About: Whole wheat sourdough is a heartier take on traditional sourdough. It has a nutty flavor and is packed with fiber.
How to Make It: Replace about 50% of the bread flour with whole wheat flour. Increase the water by 2-3 tablespoons to accommodate the extra absorption. Expect a denser crumb and a richer flavor.
Rye Sourdough
What It’s About: Rye flour adds a distinctive tang and denser texture to sourdough, creating a robust flavor that pairs well with savory dishes.
How to Make It: Substitute up to 50% of the bread flour with rye flour. Increase hydration by 2-4 tablespoons to adjust for the rye flour’s higher water needs. This will result in a denser, darker loaf with a unique taste.
Seeded Sourdough
What It’s About: Incorporate a variety of seeds, such as sesame, sunflower, and flax, for added crunch and nutrition.
How to Make It: Mix ¼ cup of assorted seeds into your dough during the final stages of mixing. Sprinkle an additional tablespoon of seeds on top of the loaf before baking. This variation adds texture and a nutty flavor.
Olive Sourdough
What It’s About: Chopped olives give a briny, savory twist to the classic sourdough, making it a great addition to meals.
How to Make It: Fold ½ cup of chopped olives into your dough after the initial kneading. Adjust the salt in the recipe to balance the added saltiness from the olives. This variation adds a Mediterranean flair to your bread.
Cheddar and Chive Sourdough
What It’s About: Sharp cheddar cheese and fresh chives make this a flavorful loaf that pairs well with soups or can be enjoyed on its own.
How to Make It: During the final mixing phase, mix 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of chopped fresh chives into the dough. The cheese will melt and create pockets of flavor throughout the loaf.
Spelt Sourdough
What It’s About: Spelt flour has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and a lighter texture than traditional sourdough.
How to Make It: Substitute up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with spelt flour. Reduce the water by 1-2 tablespoons, as spelt flour is slightly less absorbent. This variation produces a tender, slightly sweet loaf.
Multigrain Sourdough
What It’s About: Combining grains like oats, barley, and millet adds complexity and texture to your sourdough.
How to Make It: Add ¼ cup of grains or flakes to your dough. If using whole grains, soak them in ¼ cup of water for a few hours before mixing them into the dough. This ensures they are properly hydrated and evenly distributed.
Honey and Walnut Sourdough
What It’s About: Sweet honey and crunchy walnuts provide a delightful contrast in flavor, making this a special treat.
How to Make It: During the final kneading, incorporate ½ cups of chopped walnuts and 2 tablespoons of honey into the dough. Adjust the sugar in your recipe to balance the sweetness. This will add a sweet, nutty flavor to your bread.
Dried Fruit Sourdough
What It’s About: Dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or cranberries add a sweet and chewy element to sourdough.
How to Make It: After the initial kneading, mix ½ cups of chopped dried fruits into the dough. Ensure the fruits are evenly distributed throughout the dough to avoid clumping and provide a sweet, chewy texture.
Garlic and Herb Sourdough
What It’s About: Roasted garlic and a mix of herbs like rosemary or thyme infuse your sourdough with aromatic flavors.
How to Make It: Fold in 2-3 cloves of roasted garlic (mashed) and 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs into the dough during the final mixing. This variation adds a rich, savory aroma and flavor to your loaf.
