Today, we are answering the question, how long is sourdough bread good for? And reviewing the best way to store sourdough to keep it fresh!
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What is Sourdough Bread?
Sourdough bread is a type of bread made through a natural fermentation process, utilizing wild yeast and lactobacilli bacteria. Unlike conventional bread that relies on commercial yeast for leavening, sourdough relies on a sourdough starter, which is a mixture of flour and water inhabited by wild yeast and bacteria. This natural fermentation process imparts a distinctive tangy flavor and chewy texture to the bread. Sourdough bread is a staple in our household and I love sharing what I’ve learned with others!
How Long Is Sourdough Bread Good For?
One common question that I get from my sourdough loving friends is, “How long is sourdough bread good for?” The answer to this question depends on various factors, including storage conditions, ingredients used, and whether the bread contains any preservatives (true sourdough bread should not, especially homemade bread). In general, freshly baked sourdough bread without preservatives has a relatively short shelf life compared to commercially produced bread. Sourdough bread has the best texture and taste on the first day of baking. But unless you are having a party or have a big family, you’re likely not going to eat an entire loaf in one day.
On average, you can expect sourdough bread to stay fresh at room temperature for about 2 to 4 days. However, there are ways to extend its freshness and prevent it from becoming stale or moldy.
How To Store Fresh Sourdough Bread At Room Temperature
The best way to store fresh bread and maintain its soft quality is to keep it at room temperature. However, this will only last for, on average, a maximum of 4 days after baking the loaf. When storing fresh sourdough bread at room temperature, consider the following tips:
Cut Side Down: Your sourdough bread is best when it’s fresh from the oven. Always allow your sourdough to cool before slicing. This prevents the crumb from getting gummy. To enjoy the best your loaf has to offer, eat at least some of it right away. Keep the loaf whole and slice off only what you are eating. Once you’ve sliced into the bread, store it cut side down on a cutting board to help retain moisture and prevent the exposed crumb from drying out. I usually leave my sourdough loaf on a cutting board and cover it with a tea towel to keep dust off. This is the storage method I prefer during the first 24 ours after baking. Use a bread knife to slice.
Use a Bread Box or Bread Bag: After day 1, sourdough bread benefits from being stored in a breathable environment like a bread box or or a linen bag. This helps maintain the bread’s texture and prevent it from drying out too quickly. A brown paper bag can work here as well, though something reusable is best.
Avoid the Plastic Bag: While it might be tempting to use plastic bags or plastic wrap for convenience, they can create a moist environment that encourages mold growth (not to mention are bad for the environment). Sourdough bread is best stored in a container that allows air circulation. Avoid storing bread in an airtight container.
Keep Away From Heat and Sunlight: Avoid placing the bread near heat sources or in direct sunlight, as these conditions can create stale bread quicker.
Avoid Refrigeration: Refrigeration is not generally recommended for storing sourdough bread, as it can lead to a quicker loss of moisture and affect the texture. However, if you anticipate not finishing the bread within a few days, freezing is a better option.
How To Freeze Sourdough Bread
After the first few days of keeping the bread at room temperature, you’ll notice the texture start to change as the crisp crust becomes soft and the soft interior loses its spongy texture. Freezing sourdough is an excellent way to preserve its freshness for a more extended period. Here’s how to freeze sourdough bread:
Cool Completely: Be sure the sourdough bread is at room temperature before freezing. This helps prevent the formation of ice crystals that can affect the texture.
Slice the Bread: Be sure to cut the bread into individual slices before freezing. This will reduce the amount of time it takes to thaw once it’s out of the freezer. You can put the whole loaf in the freezer, but you’d need to thaw the entire loaf out before using rather than getting out piece by piece as needed.
Use an Airtight Container: Store in a reusable heavy-duty freezer bag and ensure the bag is airtight to prevent freezer burn.
Label and Date: Clearly label the package with the date of freezing to keep track of its freshness. Sourdough bread can be frozen for up to three months without a significant loss of quality. Ours never lasts that long!
How To Reheat Sourdough Bread
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen sourdough, proper reheating is crucial to preserve its texture and flavor. Follow these steps to reheat sourdough bread:
Whole Loaf: If you’ve stored your loaf whole or partially cut allow it to thaw at room temperature. Avoid using a microwave, as it can result in uneven thawing and potentially make the bread soggy. Once thawed, run the crust under cold water to give it a little rinse. Then place the whole thing into the oven at 200°F or 300°F for about 7 minutes or so. The water will help revive the crisp crust and the heat will re-moisten the interior of the bread. You can place the loaf directly on the wire rack or use a baking sheet if preferred.
Slices: This is our favorite way to store and use our frozen sourdough bread. Take out as many slices as you are planning to eat and toast them up. No need to thaw. The toast comes out like the bread is a fresh as can be! You can use the oven, a toaster, or even the stovetop for this.
Other Expert Tips
Zero Waste Bread Storage
As with anything that requires storage, whether room temperature or frozen, it’s important to consider your options for the most sustainable method. Avoid disposable storage. The best tools for a sustainable kitchen are reusable options. Consider reusable ziploc bags as an alternative to a plastic ziploc bag when storing your bread in the freezer. Additionally, instead of paper bags for fresh loaves (although these could be reusable), consider a linen bread bag or a bread box when keeping your loaf of sourdough bread at room temperature.
What to do with stale bread?
As an alternative option to freezing, stale sourdough is fantastic for making many kitchen staples!
Sourdough Croutons: Just cut up the bread into bite size pieces and dehydrate them in the oven at it’s lowest setting for an hour or so (be sure to check it for burning). These croutons can last for many days and are fantastic on salads
Bread Crumbs: Another great option for stale bread are bread crumbs. Grind them up in a blender and dehydrate. Add some seasonings to them for a pre-seasoned homemade bread crumb mixture!
DIY Bread Crisps: Slice stale bread thinly and bake in the oven until crisp. These homemade crisps can be served with dips, cheeses, or spreads.
Make a Bread-Based Stuffing: Stale bread is ideal for making stuffing or dressing for poultry. Combine with herbs, vegetables, and broth for a flavorful side dish.
Whip Up French Toast: Stale bread is perfect for making French toast. Soak slices in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and spices, then cook until golden brown. Serve with syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Make an Olive Oil Dip: During the staling process, perhaps on day 3 or 4, make yourself an olive oil dip to bring some of that lost moisture back into your sourdough.
Start your Homemade Sourdough Journey!
Though there are many great local bakeries that make wonderful, preservative-free, sourdough, there is nothing quite like the smell of a fresh loaf of sourdough baking in your kitchen. Check out this Basic Sourdough Bread recipe to get started on your first loaf!
Homemade Sourdough Bread Recipe
Your homemade sourdough loaf won’t get very far without a starter. Follow this step-by-step guide on how to make your own sourdough starter from scratch.
How to Make a Sourdough Starter
Understanding how long sourdough bread lasts and employing proper storage techniques can significantly enhance your bread’s shelf life and overall quality. Whether you choose to enjoy it fresh at room temperature or extend its life through freezing, the key is to preserve its unique qualities and savor the deliciousness of homemade sourdough for as long as possible.
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