Sourdough Bread Vegan Recipe: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

There’s something truly magical about the process of baking sourdough bread, especially when it’s done vegan style. This ancient bread-making method relies on natural fermentation, which not only creates a wonderfully tangy flavor but also makes the bread easier to digest.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner eager to dive into the world of sourdough, this vegan sourdough bread recipe is a perfect place to start. It’s simple, wholesome, and requires only a few basic ingredients that you might already have in your pantry.

Unlike traditional breads that often include dairy or eggs, this recipe uses only plant-based ingredients, making it accessible for everyone. Plus, you get the added benefits of a naturally fermented bread — great for gut health and bursting with rich, complex flavors.

Read on for a detailed guide that will walk you through every step of making your own fluffy, crusty, and delicious vegan sourdough bread at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan sourdough bread recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy bread that’s both healthy and satisfying. The slow fermentation not only develops amazing taste but also helps improve the bread’s texture and shelf life naturally.

You won’t find any shortcuts here—just pure, simple ingredients and a bit of patience that rewards you with a loaf that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

What makes this recipe stand out is its flexibility. You don’t need any fancy or expensive ingredients, just flour, water, salt, and your sourdough starter.

It’s perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle or anyone wanting to avoid commercial yeast. Plus, the process itself is a wonderful ritual that connects you to the tradition of bread-making.

And don’t worry if you’ve never made sourdough before — the step-by-step instructions will guide you through every stage.

For more vegan bread ideas, check out our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves and Vegan Bread Maker Recipe for Soft and Delicious Loaves to expand your baking repertoire!

Ingredients

• 500g bread flour (unbleached, preferably organic)
• 350g water (room temperature)
• 100g active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
• 10g sea salt

Equipment

• Mixing bowl (large enough to hold dough comfortably)
• Kitchen scale (for precise measurements)
• Dutch oven or heavy baking pot with lid
• Bench scraper or spatula
• Proofing basket or bowl lined with a clean kitchen towel
• Clean tea towel or plastic wrap
• Sharp knife or lame (for scoring)
• Oven mitts

Instructions

1. Feed your sourdough starter about 4-6 hours before starting the dough to ensure it’s active and bubbly.
2. Mix the flour and water in a large bowl until just combined. Cover and let it rest for 30-60 minutes. This is called autolyse and helps develop the gluten.
3. Add the sourdough starter and salt to the dough. Mix thoroughly until fully incorporated. You can use your hands or a spatula.
4. Begin the bulk fermentation by covering the dough and letting it rest at room temperature (about 21-24°C or 70-75°F) for 4-6 hours. During this time, perform 3-4 sets of stretch and folds at 30-minute intervals to develop dough strength.
5. Shape the dough gently on a lightly floured surface into a tight round or oval loaf. Place it seam-side up into a well-floured proofing basket or bowl lined with a towel.
6. Cover and refrigerate the dough overnight (8-12 hours) for slow fermentation and flavor development.
7. Preheat your oven to 250°C (480°F) with your Dutch oven inside for at least 30 minutes before baking.
8. Carefully turn the dough out onto parchment paper, score the top with a sharp knife or lame to allow for expansion during baking.
9. Place the dough inside the preheated Dutch oven with the lid on and bake for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the crust is deeply golden and crisp.
11. Cool the bread on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the crumb to set properly.

Tips & Variations

“Patience is key with sourdough! Don’t rush the fermentation — the longer, slower process creates the best flavor and texture.”

• Hydration adjustments: If your dough feels too sticky or dry, adjust the water by 10-20g next time. Different flours absorb water differently.
• Add seeds or nuts: For extra flavor and texture, fold in 2-3 tablespoons of sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped walnuts during shaping.
• Whole wheat variation: Substitute 100g of bread flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and denser crumb.
• Use a baking stone: If you don’t have a Dutch oven, bake on a preheated baking stone and add steam by placing a pan of water in the oven.
• Starter maintenance: For best results, keep your sourdough starter healthy by feeding it regularly and discarding excess starter.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your homemade vegan sourdough bread fresh with a simple spread of vegan garden vegetable cream cheese or your favorite nut butter. It pairs beautifully with hearty soups like our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating or alongside a vibrant salad.

Use slices for sandwiches stuffed with fresh veggies and hummus, or toast them for breakfast topped with avocado and cherry tomatoes. This bread also makes an excellent base for bruschetta or as a side with creamy vegan pasta dishes such as our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.

Conclusion

Baking your own vegan sourdough bread is a rewarding experience that fills your home with a comforting aroma and provides delicious, wholesome bread you can proudly say you made yourself. This recipe celebrates the simplicity and tradition of sourdough, using only plant-based ingredients to create a loaf that’s nourishing and full of flavor.

As you continue to perfect your technique, you’ll discover how versatile sourdough is — perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. The natural fermentation process also offers health benefits, making this bread a fantastic staple in any vegan kitchen.

If you’re inspired by this recipe, don’t forget to explore other vegan delights like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the Soy Free Vegan Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals for your next culinary adventure.

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