Simple Sourdough Bread

For Bread Machines

Makes: 1 lb loaf    |   Difficulty Level: Medium    |   Ready In: > 2 hrs

Ingredients:

1/4 cup Water (75 degrees F - 85 degrees F)
3/4 cup Sourdough starter (recipe below)
1 tablespoon Margarine
1 teaspoon Salt
2 teaspoons Sugar
2 cups Bread flour
1 1/2 teaspoon Active dry yeast


Directions:

Accurately measure all ingredients. For flour, first stir, then spoon into a dry measuring cup and level off. Add ingredients to pan in the order suggested in the manual. Recommended cycle: Basic/White Bread cycle; medium crust color. It is all right to open the machine and touch the dough to check its consistency. Do this after about 5 minutes. The dough should form a soft ball around the kneading blade. If it is too dry, add liquid 1/2 to 1 Tbsp. at a time; if it is too wet, add 1 Tbsp. of flour at a time.

Sourdough Starter

Ingredients:

1 package active dry yeast
2 cups lukewarm water
2 cups flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 cup milk


Directions:

In a large glass jar or crockery pot, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add flour; beat until smooth. Let stand at room temperature for five days. Stir each day.

On fifth day add sugar, water and milk. Refrigerate, stirring daily for another five days before using. Starter may be kept in refrigerator indefinitely. Always replace used portion with equal amount of flour and water.