What is Sourdough and how is it made?
Sourdough is a natural ferment, made of just flour and water, with no added yeast. In the flour itself there are different natural rising agents and bacteria, which produce a spontaneous fermentation of the dough when they come in contact with the water. This type of wild fermentation, as ancient as the breads produced from it, adds a special flavor and aroma to the dough, and helps regulate its acidity. The process of developing a sourdough starter takes at least five days. It should look creamy, bubbly on the surface and present a slightly sour aroma. This is when we know it’s ready to use in bread preparation.
Benefits of sourdough bread:
Easier to digest: part of the gluten ferments during the preparation process of sourdough bread, which makes it easier to digest than other types of bread.
More nutritious: with only three ingredients -flour, sourdough starter, and salt- sourdough bread is more nutritious than other types of bread; this is due, again, to the fermentation process.
Longer shelf life: a good sourdough, thanks to its natural lactic acid, has a lower pH, which grants it a longer shelf life, allowing us to enjoy the product for a longer time, without any extra additives or preservatives, just its natural goodness. The sourdough starter helps the bread grow in volume, and keeps it deliciously tender for a longer time.
Lactic Sourdough?
The starter’s sour flavor can be tamed; some breads use less sourdough so that the flavor is not overly sour, which not everyone likes. Lactic sourdough starter gives the bread an exquisite aroma and flavor.
Sourdough, Olive Oil, and Mediterranean Diet
Sourdough and olive oil are two 100% natural, typically Mediterranean ingredients present in the preparation of our 100% natural Cristal bread. A lactic acid sourdough starter, developed with a high water ratio (80%), three natural fermentations, and a careful hand-rolling process define our bread. The olive oil -a traditional staple of the Mediterranean diet and one of its most delicious, as well as health-promoting components- boosts flavor, adds moisture and volume to the bread. These features explain why breads like Cristal have such a central role in the Mediterranean diet.
The result is a fresh, healthy, light bread with a very thin crust, an airy crumb, and an artisanal appearance, which pairs nicely with any gourmet recipe. Cristal bread highlights the flavors of anything you serve it with, thanks to its delicate flavor. Cristal bread is a unique gourmet product, with its Clean Label seal, no additives or preservatives, vegan, and with no added sugars.
For more information visit cristalbread.com
This post is sponsored by Europastry