Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Basil Infusion
Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes
A delightful blend of tangy lemon, sweet blueberries, and aromatic basil, this sourdough bread is perfect for breakfast or as a unique snack.
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Basil Infusion is inspired by the vibrant flavors of summer. The combination of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon, paired with the unique hint of basil, creates a truly unforgettable bread experience. Perfectly crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, this sourdough is a delightful addition to any meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
- Juicy blueberries bursting with sweetness
- A unique basil infusion for a fresh twist
A Perfect Morning Treat
Imagine waking up to the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread, infused with zesty lemon and sweet blueberries. This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Basil Infusion is not just a bread; it's an experience that elevates your breakfast or brunch. Perfectly paired with butter or cream cheese, each slice offers a delightful balance of flavors that will make your mornings memorable.
The unique combination of lemon and blueberries creates a refreshing taste that can brighten even the dullest of days. With the added touch of basil, this bread not only satisfies your taste buds but also introduces a culinary twist that is sure to impress family and friends. It’s an ideal choice for special occasions or simply to treat yourself on a lazy Sunday.
The Art of Sourdough Baking
Baking sourdough is an art that combines patience and technique, resulting in bread that is both flavorful and wholesome. The fermentation process involved in sourdough gives it a distinctive tang and a chewy texture, making it a favorite among bread enthusiasts. This recipe embraces that tradition while adding innovative flavors that make it truly special.
Using a sourdough starter not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the bread's health benefits. Sourdough is easier to digest and has a lower glycemic index compared to regular bread, making it a smart choice for those looking to enjoy bread without the guilt. Embrace the process of sourdough baking, and you’ll be rewarded with a loaf that not only looks beautiful but also nourishes your body.
Tips for Success
Ingredients
For the Sourdough Bread
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to form a dough.
Instructions
Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sourdough starter, warm water, salt, sugar, and lemon zest. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Incorporate the Blueberries and Basil
Gently fold in the blueberries and chopped basil until evenly distributed.
First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Loaf
Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
Second Rise
Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 45 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Basil Infusion!
Storage Tips
To keep your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough fresh, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider wrapping the bread tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. You can also freeze slices for up to three months. Just make sure to toast or warm them up before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Avoid storing your bread in the fridge, as this can cause it to dry out more quickly. Instead, opt for a bread box or a cool, dry place in your kitchen to maintain its freshness. When you're ready to enjoy, simply slice off what you need and toast it to bring back that fresh-baked aroma.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a stand-alone treat, or dress it up with toppings like whipped cream cheese, lemon curd, or a drizzle of honey. The tanginess of the lemon pairs beautifully with sweet toppings, adding another layer of flavor to your snack or breakfast.
For an elegant afternoon tea, consider pairing this bread with a light herbal tea or iced beverage. The refreshing notes of basil complement the citrus and berry flavors, creating a delightful harmony. You could also create a stunning brunch spread, showcasing this bread alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and granola for a wholesome and colorful meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but they may release more moisture during baking.
→ How do I store the sourdough bread?
Store the bread in a paper bag at room temperature or wrap it tightly and refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I substitute the basil?
Yes, you can try other herbs like mint or omit it entirely for a simpler flavor.
→ How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is done when it's golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Basil Infusion
A delightful blend of tangy lemon, sweet blueberries, and aromatic basil, this sourdough bread is perfect for breakfast or as a unique snack.
Created by: Luca
Recipe Type: Comfort Meal Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough Bread
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sourdough starter, warm water, salt, sugar, and lemon zest. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Gently fold in the blueberries and chopped basil until evenly distributed.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 45 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 8g