She Strengthens

Elevate Your Sourdough Game: Mastering Mix-Ins and Flavor Combinations

You’ve perfected your basic sourdough recipe, and now it’s time to take your bread to the next level by incorporating mix-ins. With a few simple tips and techniques, you can create unique flavor combinations that will impress friends and family.

The Art of Selecting Mix-Ins

Before adding ingredients willy-nilly, consider a few key factors to ensure your bread turns out light and flavorful. Firstly, keep your mix-ins small and balanced. Aim for two to three elements that complement each other, and limit their total weight to around 20% of your dough’s weight.

Hydration Matters

Be mindful of ingredients that can affect your dough’s hydration levels. Dry your mix-ins thoroughly, and adjust your liquid content accordingly to prevent a soggy or dense loaf.

Incorporating Mix-Ins: Two Main Methods

There are two primary ways to add mix-ins to your sourdough bread: during the bulk rise or through swirling.

Bulk Rise Add-Ins

Add chopped fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips during the early stages of bulk fermentation. This method ensures even distribution and maximum flavor. For herbs, dice them finely to avoid woody textures.

Swirling in Additional Ingredients

After the bulk rise, stretch out your dough and cover it with your desired toppings. Roll the bread up jelly-roll style, and proof as usual. This method is perfect for creating visually appealing breads with distinct flavor profiles.

Sweet and Savory Sourdough Inspiration

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to experiment with new flavors! Here are some unique combinations to get you started:

Jalapeño Cheddar Sourdough

Combine 60g of pickled jalapeños and 40g of mild cheddar cheese for a spicy, savory loaf.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Sourdough

Bring together the richness of focaccia and the texture of sourdough with 40g of sun-dried tomatoes and 60g of feta cheese.

Candy Bar Inspired Coconut and Dark Chocolate Sourdough

Toast 40g of sweetened coconut flakes and add 60g of dark chocolate chips for a sweet, indulgent treat.

Olive, Thyme, Lemon, & Parmesan Sourdough

Combine 45g of chopped olives, 2 teaspoons of crushed thyme, 2 teaspoons of grated lemon peel, and 30g of parmesan cheese for a savory, aromatic loaf.

Classic Cinnamon Raisin Sourdough

Mix 75g of raisins with vanilla, cinnamon, and a splash of water for a sweet, comforting bread.

Amy’s Apricot and White Chocolate Sourdough

Inspired by a local candy shop, this combination features 50g of dried apricots and 50g of white chocolate chips for a sweet, fruity treat.

With these tips and inspiration, you’re ready to take your sourdough game to new heights! Experiment with different mix-ins and flavor combinations to create unique breads that will impress anyone.