Air Fryer Sourdough Bread Recipe

Sourdough starter: This is a fermented mixture of flour and water that acts as a natural leavening agent, giving the bread its unique flavor and texture.

All-purpose flour: A versatile flour that provides the structure and body for the bread.

Water: Essential for hydrating the flour and activating the sourdough starter.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread and helps control the fermentation process.

To achieve a perfect sourdough bread crust in the air fryer, consider placing a small oven-safe dish with water in the basket alongside the dough. The steam will help create a crispier crust, similar to what you would get in a traditional oven.

• sourdough starter - Substitute with commercial yeast: If you don't have a sourdough starter, you can use commercial yeast. Use about 7 grams of active dry yeast dissolved in warm water. This will help the dough rise, though it won't have the same tangy flavor as sourdough.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can give the bread a chewier texture and better structure. This is especially useful in an air fryer where the cooking environment is different from a traditional oven.

• water - Substitute with milk: Using milk instead of water can add a richer flavor and softer texture to the bread. It also helps in browning the crust.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in place of regular salt for a slightly different flavor profile. It can add a more complex taste to the bread.

• Allow the sourdough bread to cool completely before storing. This ensures that any residual moisture evaporates, preventing sogginess.
• Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out.
• Place the wrapped loaf in a bread box or an airtight container. This provides an extra layer of protection against air and moisture.
• For short-term storage, keep the bread at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the bread. Slice the loaf before freezing for easier portioning later.
• Wrap each slice or the entire loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This double-wrapping method helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the bread at room temperature or reheat slices directly from the freezer in a toaster or oven.
• For a crispier crust, reheat the thawed bread in an oven preheated to 180°C (356°F) for about 10 minutes.

• Preheat your air fryer to 150°C (302°F). Place the sourdough bread slices in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method will give you a crispy crust while keeping the inside soft.

• For a quick reheat, use a microwave. Wrap the bread in a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. This will help retain moisture and prevent the bread from drying out.

• If you prefer a more traditional approach, preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Wrap the sourdough bread in aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 10-15 minutes. This method will evenly warm the bread without making it too crispy.

• For a stovetop option, heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the bread slices in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side. This will give you a slightly toasted exterior with a warm, soft interior.

• If you have a toaster oven, set it to 150°C (302°F) and place the sourdough bread slices inside. Heat for 5-7 minutes until the bread is warmed through and slightly crispy.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the sourdough starter, flour, water, and salt.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing the ingredients together before kneading.

• Kitchen scale: Ensures precise measurement of the sourdough starter, flour, and salt.

• Measuring jug: Use this to measure the water accurately.

• Clean surface: Necessary for kneading the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.

• Kitchen towel: Cover the dough while it rises to keep it warm and prevent it from drying out.

• Air fryer: Preheat this to 180°C (356°F) and use it to bake the bread.

• Air fryer basket: Place the shaped dough in this for cooking.

• Cooling rack: Let the bread cool on this before slicing to ensure it sets properly.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out the sourdough starter, flour, water, and salt the night before to save time.

Use a stand mixer: Knead the dough using a stand mixer with a dough hook to achieve a smooth and elastic texture faster.

Warm environment: Place the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to speed up the rising process.

Preheat air fryer: Preheat the air fryer while shaping the dough to save time.

Cool on a rack: Use a cooling rack to cool the bread faster before slicing.