12/17/2024
Ingredients
For the Sourdough Starter:
1/2 cup (120ml) water (room temperature)
1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sourdough starter (or a pinch of active dry yeast if you’re not using a sourdough starter)
For the Dough:
1 cup (240ml) water (room temperature)
3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (60g) whole wheat flour
1/2 cup (80g) popped quinoa
1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
2 tsp salt
1 tsp honey or sugar
1/4 cup (60g) sourdough starter (or active dry yeast)
1/2 cup (120ml) water (for mixing)
Directions
1. Prepare the Sourdough Starter:
If you're starting your own sourdough starter, combine 1/2 cup of water with 1/2 cup of flour in a glass jar. Stir, cover loosely, and let it sit at room temperature for about 24-48 hours, feeding it with more flour and water every 12 hours until it’s bubbly and ready to use.
Alternatively, use 1 tbsp of an established sourdough starter or 1 tsp of active dry yeast.
2. Popping the Quinoa:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the quinoa. Stir constantly for about 3-5 minutes until the quinoa pops and becomes crispy. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the water, sourdough starter, and honey or sugar. Stir to dissolve.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt, mixing until the dough starts to come together.
Add the olive oil and popped quinoa to the dough, kneading for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to speed up this process.
Add more water if the dough is too dry, or more flour if it’s too sticky.
4. First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 6-8 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough:
After the first rise, gently punch down the dough to release any air.
Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference.
6. Second Rise:
Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a proofing basket. Cover and let it rise for another 1-2 hours, until puffed and nearly doubled.
7. Bake the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
If you have a Dutch oven, place it in the oven while preheating to create a steamy environment.
Once the oven is hot, carefully transfer the dough (with or without parchment) into the Dutch oven or directly onto a baking sheet.
Score the top of the dough with a sharp knife for a decorative touch and to help the bread expand evenly while baking.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and Serve:
Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips:
Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container or a bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread and toast slices as needed.
Adding Flavors: Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
No Sourdough Starter? You can substitute the sourdough starter with an equal amount of active dry yeast for a quicker version of the bread.
This Popped Quinoa Sourdough Bread is a flavorful, nutritious alternative to traditional bread, offering a delightful crunch and nutty flavor with every bite! 🍞🌾