Caring for and baking with a sourdough starter isn't as daunting as it may seem. I'll admit, it is a bit overwhelming at first (especially for my math-challenged friends out there like me). But fear not! See if your neighbor has a starter that they can offer you or simply ask the internet. A Facebook group or friend of a friend is sure to have one that they'll love sharing with you for free. Take that little sticky goopy "pet" home, set it on your counter, and feed it approximately eight to 12 hours before you want to bake this beautiful sandwich loaf recipe below. You'll never buy bread again. Really, it's that good.
1/2 cup of starter
1 1/4 cups lukewarm water
1 tablespoon of honey (preferably raw unfiltered)
1/2 tablespoon of salt
1/2 cup of salted butter (softened)
4 cups of unbleached all purpose flour
In a stand mixer, add water and starter to mixing bowl and set mixer to low speed until incorporated, Add honey, salt, and butter. Using the dough hook attachment, slowly add the flour. After all ingredients are incorporated, let dough hook knead for 10 minutes or until the dough is very pliable in hands (should feel soft and pillowy). Put dough in a greased bowl, cover with fabric or plate and set somewhere warm for dough to rise and double in size (about an hour). Lift dough out of bowl and transfer to a greased loaf pan, seam side down. Seam is where the dough comes together. Place in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Remove from loaf pan and place on rack or block to cool before slicing. Brush top with butter while still warm to keep crust soft. Enjoy!
"You'll never buy bread again. Really, it's that good."