Bulk fermentation and proofing 4 hourshrs45 minutesmins
Total Time 6 hourshrs
Course Side Dish
Cuisine European
Servings 1large loaf
Equipment
Large Mixing Bowl
Bench scraper
Dutch oven or baking stone
Banneton basket or a bowl with a towel
Sharp knife or lame for scoring
Parchment paper
Ingredients
500g4 cups bread flour
100g1/2 cup active sourdough starter
350g1 1/2 cups water
10g2 tsp sea salt
100g2/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
1tbspfresh rosemaryfinely chopped
Instructions
Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the bread flour and water, mixing until no dry spots remain. Let this rest (autolyse) for 30 minutes to improve gluten development.
Incorporate the Starter and Salt
Add the active sourdough starter and salt to the dough. Mix thoroughly by hand using a stretch-and-fold method.
Bulk Fermentation & Folding
Let the dough rest in a covered bowl for 4 hours at room temperature, performing stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes. After the first hour, gently fold in the chopped olives and rosemary.
Shaping
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a round or oval, and place it into a well-floured banneton basket or a bowl lined with a floured towel.
Proofing
Cover and let the dough proof at room temperature for 1.5 hours, until slightly puffy but not over-proofed.
Baking
Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a Dutch oven inside to heat for 30 minutes. Transfer the dough onto parchment paper, score the top, and carefully place it into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for another 25 minutes until golden brown.
Cooling
Allow the loaf to cool for at least an hour before slicing to ensure the crumb sets properly.