Harvest Grain Sourdough Loaf: A Hearty, Nutritious Bake

Nothing compares to the satisfaction of baking your own bread, especially when it’s packed with wholesome grains and seeds. This Harvest Grain Sourdough Loaf is a hearty, nutritious addition to your kitchen, combining the tangy depth of sourdough with the texture and richness of whole grains. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple to follow and yields a deliciously chewy loaf with a crisp crust.

Why You’ll Love This Loaf

This sourdough loaf is not only flavorful but also incredibly nourishing. It uses whole wheat flour for fiber and nutrients, white flour for structure, and an assortment of seeds for added texture, healthy fats, and a boost of protein. Plus, the natural fermentation from the sourdough starter enhances digestion and gives the bread its signature tang.

The Benefits of Freshly Milled Grains

Using freshly milled grains, such as hard red wheat for whole wheat flour, elevates your Harvest Grain Sourdough Loaf in both taste and nutrition. When grains are ground fresh, they retain more of their natural oils, vitamins, and minerals, which can be lost in store-bought, pre-ground flour. This gives your bread a richer, more robust flavor, as well as added nutrients like fiber, protein, and essential fatty acids.

If you have a grain mill at home, it’s worth the investment—freshly milled flour adds a depth of flavor and texture that’s hard to beat. For those who don’t have a mill, many specialty shops or online retailers offer freshly milled flours that you can purchase to get the same benefits.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup sourdough starter
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (or 2 tablespoons sugar)
• ½ tablespoon salt
• 1 cup water (use warm for a shorter rise, cold for a longer rise)
• 1 egg (optional, for a softer crumb)
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (freshly ground hard red wheat recommended)
  • I buy my wheat berries in bulk from Azure!
• ¼ cup small seeds (such as poppy, sesame, flax, or chia)
  • I also buy my seeds from Azure.
• ¼ – ½ cup big seeds (such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds)
• 2 cups white flour

Instructions

1. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, honey (or chosen sweetener), salt, and water. If using eggs, add them at this stage. I love using a danish dough whisk at the stage, or my hands.
2. Incorporate the Flours and Seeds: Gradually mix in the whole wheat flour, followed by the seeds and allow to sit. This allows time for the whole wheat and seeds to absorb some water. Stir well before adding the white flour, incorporating it one cup at a time until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead: Knead the dough in a bowl or turn onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. A stand mixer is a great option here if you have one available!
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise at room temperature for 8-12 hours, or until it doubles in size. The fermentation time depends on the temperature of your water and kitchen.
5. Shape the Loaf: Once risen, turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Transfer to a lined or greased proofing basket or loaf pan.
6. Second Rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 1-2 hours until slightly puffy.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it inside while preheating. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or lame, then bake for 30-40 minutes, reducing the temperature to 400°F (204°C) after the first 15 minutes.
8. Cool & Enjoy: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to let the crumb set properly.

Tips for Success

• For Extra Flavor: Let the dough ferment in the fridge overnight for a deeper sourdough tang.
• Seed Variations: Try mixing in different seeds or nuts to experiment with flavors and textures.
• Storage: Store the loaf in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to maintain its crust.

Baking this Harvest Grain Sourdough Loaf is a rewarding experience that fills your home with warmth and aroma. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed with a slather of butter, this wholesome bread is a must-try for any sourdough enthusiast. Happy baking!