Sourdough Bread Bowls

The air is crisp, and that means soup season! What better way to serve your favorite fall soups than in a sourdough bread bowl? These sourdough bread bowls have a chewy crust and a tight crumb, making them ideal for holding even the thinnest of soups. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, these bowls are sure to impress your guests while adding flair to any meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The tangy taste of sourdough elevates any soup served inside.
• Customizable Sizes: Make smaller bowls for appetizers or larger ones for main dishes.
• Great Presentation: Serve your soups in these stunning bread bowls for an eye-catching display.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have fresh bread bowls ready in no time.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Any leftover bread can be used for sandwiches or croutons.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, having the right tools will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Dough scraper
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for mixing all your ingredients together without spilling.
• Dough scraper: This tool helps you manage sticky dough and shape it easily.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and provides enough space for all your bowls.

Ingredients

For the Sourdough Bread Bowls

• 1/2 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly (100g)
• 2 cups filtered water (480g)
• 2 tbs granulated sugar (30g)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (55g)
• 7 cups bread flour (840g)
• 1 tsp salt (8g)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbs filtered water

How to Make Sourdough Bread Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, filtered water, granulated sugar, and olive oil. Stir well until mixed.
2. Gradually add the bread flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Bowls

1. Once risen, punch down the dough to release excess air.
2. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces.
3. Shape each piece into a round ball by tucking edges underneath.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Place shaped balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Cover with a cloth and let rise again for about 30 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 7: Egg Wash and Bake

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and filtered water. Brush this mixture over each dough ball.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes until golden brown.

With these steps complete, you’ll have delightful sourdough bread bowls ready to serve alongside your favorite soups! Enjoy!

How to Serve Sourdough Bread Bowls

Sourdough bread bowls are not just for serving soup; they can elevate many meals and snacks. Here are some fun and delicious ways to enjoy these hearty bowls.

With Hearty Soups

• Chili – Serve your favorite chili in a sourdough bowl for a comforting meal.
• Creamy Tomato Soup – Pair with a classic tomato bisque for a perfect combination.
• Vegetable Soup – Fill with a vibrant vegetable broth loaded with fresh veggies.

As a Snack

• Spinach Artichoke Dip – Use the bowl as a dip container; the leftover bread is delicious!
• Cheese Fondue – Fill with melted cheese for an interactive eating experience.
• Guacamole – A unique way to serve guacamole, perfect for parties or gatherings.

For Salads

• Caesar Salad – Serve a classic Caesar salad in a sourdough bowl for added texture.
• Greek Salad – The tanginess of feta cheese complements the sourdough nicely.

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How to Perfect Sourdough Bread Bowls

Making sourdough bread bowls can be simple, but here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use an active starter – Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active for better rise.
• Knead well – Knead the dough enough to develop gluten, which provides structure and chewiness.
• Shape correctly – Shape your bowls into tight rounds to achieve the best crust.
• Bake on a hot stone – Using a baking stone helps create a crispy bottom crust.
• Steam the oven – Adding steam during baking can enhance crust development and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Bread Bowls

Sourdough bread bowls pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavor and texture. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Breadsticks – These soft sticks are perfect for dipping into any remaining soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella contrast beautifully with the dense bread.
4. Potato Wedges – Crispy wedges make for a hearty side next to your bread bowl.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms stuffed with cheese provide an elegant touch.
6. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad balances the warm, hearty soup in your bread bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sourdough bread bowls can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the perfect result.

• Ignoring the starter’s readiness: Always ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using it. A weak starter will lead to dense bread bowls.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Incorrect amounts can alter the dough’s consistency and rise.
• Over-kneading the dough: Knead just until smooth to prevent tough bread bowls. Over-kneading can result in a chewy texture instead of a light one.
• Skipping the resting period: Allow your dough to rest properly during fermentation. This helps develop flavor and texture, making your bread bowls more delicious.
• Failing to preheat the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. A hot oven ensures that your sourdough bread bowls puff up beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sourdough bread bowls in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the fridge without losing too much freshness.

Freezing Sourdough Bread Bowls

• Wrap each bowl tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Sourdough bread bowls can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sourdough Bread Bowls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bowls on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking often to avoid drying them out.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about sourdough bread bowls that might help you along the way.

Can I make Sourdough Bread Bowls without a starter?

You can use store-bought yeast if you don’t have a starter, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor as traditional sourdough.

How do I know when my Sourdough Bread Bowls are done baking?

Your sourdough bread bowls are ready when they sound hollow when tapped on the bottom and have a golden-brown crust.

What soups pair well with Sourdough Bread Bowls?

Almost any soup works well, but creamy soups or chunky stews are particularly delightful served in sourdough bread bowls.

Can I customize my Sourdough Bread Bowls?

Absolutely! You can add herbs like rosemary or garlic powder to enhance flavor or experiment with different types of flour.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough bread bowls are not just functional; they add charm and flavor to any soup. Their chewy crust holds comforting soups beautifully, making every bite enjoyable. Feel free to customize these bread bowls with your favorite herbs or spices for an even more personalized touch!

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Sourdough bread bowls are the quintessential comfort food, combining the rustic charm of artisan bread with the warmth of your favorite soups. With a chewy crust and soft interior, these homemade sourdough bowls are not only practical for serving soup but also a delightful presentation that will impress your guests. Imagine ladling creamy tomato bisque or hearty chili into these edible vessels, making every meal memorable. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, this easy recipe allows you to customize sizes and flavors, ensuring a perfect match for any dish.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
• 2 cups filtered water
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 7 cups bread flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon filtered water

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, filtered water, granulated sugar, and olive oil. Mix well.
2. Gradually add bread flour and salt to form a shaggy dough.
3. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough, divide into six pieces, and shape each into a round ball.
6. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each dough ball with an egg wash made from whisking together the egg and filtered water.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 120g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 30mg