Mediterranean Diet Classic Sourdough Bread

Elevate your bread-baking game with this Mediterranean Diet Classic Sourdough Bread, a wholesome and hearty loaf that combines old-world traditions with the healthful benefits of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Made with a mix of nutrient-rich whole grain flour and all-purpose flour, this sourdough recipe embraces the tangy depth of a naturally fermented sourdough starter. The addition of extra virgin olive oil and sea salt delivers a subtle richness and a touch of Mediterranean flair, while the long fermentation process enhances the bread’s flavor, texture, and digestibility. Perfectly baked in a Dutch oven for a golden, crackly crust and soft interior, this artisanal bread is ideal for toasting, dipping into olive oil, or pairing with vibrant Mediterranean spreads. With step-by-step guidance on techniques like autolyse and stretch-and-fold, this recipe is approachable for both seasoned bakers and sourdough newcomers. Achieving bakery-quality results at home has never been more satisfying!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:900 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:940 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 400 grams Whole grain flour
• 100 grams All-purpose flour
• 100 grams Sourdough starter (active)
• 350 milliliters Water
• 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
• 10 grams Sea salt

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, mix 400 grams of whole grain flour and 100 grams of all-purpose flour together.

Step 2

Add 100 grams of active sourdough starter and 350 milliliters of water to the flour mixture. Stir until all ingredients form a shaggy dough.

Step 3

Let the mixture rest for 30 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate (autolyse).

Step 4

After the rest period, add 10 grams of sea salt and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Mix until the salt and oil are fully incorporated.

Step 5

Perform a series of stretch and folds over the next 2 to 3 hours. Every 30 minutes, gently stretch one side of the dough and fold it over itself, rotating the bowl after each fold. This strengthens the dough.

Step 6

Let the dough rise at room temperature until it looks puffy and bubbly, about 4 to 6 hours depending on the temperature of your kitchen.

Step 7

Once risen, gently shape the dough into a round on a lightly floured surface. Allow it to rest for 20 minutes.

Step 8

Re-shape the dough into a tighter round and place it seam-side up in a floured proofing basket. Cover and refrigerate overnight or up to 12 hours for the final rise.

Step 9

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) with a Dutch oven inside for at least 30 minutes.

Step 10

Carefully remove the dough from the refrigerator and gently invert it onto a piece of parchment paper.

Step 11

Score the top of the dough with a sharp blade, then transfer it to the preheated Dutch oven.

Step 12

Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and continue to bake for 20 more minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.

Step 13

Carefully remove the bread from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(995.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2014

Total Fat 39.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4683.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 374.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 46.0g	0%
Total Sugars 1.9g
Protein 63.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 171.9mg	0%
Iron 19.3mg	0%
Potassium 1767.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 16.8%

Protein: 12.1%

Carbs: 71.1%