Can sourdough bread be made without a starter?

Yes, sourdough bread can absolutely be made without a traditional starter. The key is to create similar conditions through slow fermentation, acid additions like yogurt or vinegar, and time. Using these methods, you can mimic both the flavor and texture of sourdough.

Can you make sourdough without feeding the starter?

Yes, and it’s one of the best parts of learning how to make sourdough bread without a starter —you skip the maintenance entirely. No daily feedings, no discard. Instead, you prepare a fresh mixture and allow it to ferment just once before baking.

Can you make your own sourdough starter?

If you prefer to build one over time, absolutely. You simply mix flour and water and let it ferment over several days. But if you’re not ready to commit to that process, this guide shows you how to make sourdough bread without a starter using ingredients you already have.

What is the 3-ingredient sourdough?

This usually refers to sourdough made with flour, water, and salt. The “starter” in this case is built through time and natural yeast from your environment. You’ll let the mixture rest long enough to develop fermentation and tang—like in this no-starter sourdough recipe .

How to Make Sourdough Bread Without a Starter (Yes, Really!)

Description

Learn how to make sourdough bread without a starter using a simple mix of flour, water, salt, and a natural acidic boost. Perfect for beginners who want a rustic loaf without maintaining a sourdough starter.

Ingredients

500g bread flour

375g warm water

1 tsp sea salt

2 tsp yogurt or 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Optional: ⅛ tsp instant yeast

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.

2. Cover and rest at room temperature for 8–12 hours.

3. Stretch and fold dough a few times to build strength.

4. Shape the dough and place it in a floured proofing bowl.

5. Let rise again for 1–2 hours.

6. Preheat oven to 450°F with a Dutch oven inside.

7. Score the dough and bake covered for 25 minutes.

8. Remove lid and bake 20–25 more minutes until golden brown.

Notes

For added flavor, cold-proof the shaped dough in the fridge overnight.

Use only room temperature water to help fermentation.

Optional yeast ensures better rise on the first few tries.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American