Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion
Highlighted under: Wellness Kitchen Ideas
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion offers a delightful twist on traditional sourdough bread, blending the tangy flavor of lemons with the sweetness of blueberries and a hint of floral lavender.
This unique sourdough bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. The combination of blueberries and lemon zest, infused with lavender, creates a fragrant and flavorful loaf.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A harmonious blend of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon.
- Floral notes from lavender add a unique twist.
- Homemade sourdough flavor that's irresistible.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion is a celebration of flavors that are both bright and comforting. The tartness of fresh blueberries pairs beautifully with the vibrant zest of lemons, creating a refreshing taste that dances on your palate. This unique combination not only enhances the bread's flavor but also makes it a perfect companion for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
The addition of culinary lavender introduces an aromatic dimension that elevates this bread from ordinary to extraordinary. Lavender's floral essence complements the sweetness of the blueberries and the zesty notes of lemon, adding depth to each bite. This infusion transforms your basic sourdough into a gourmet experience, making it an ideal treat for special occasions or a delightful surprise for guests.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
Each ingredient in this recipe brings its own health benefits to the table. Blueberries are renowned for their antioxidant properties, which can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. Incorporating them into your sourdough not only enhances flavor but also boosts its nutritional profile.
Lemons are a fantastic source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin. Their natural acidity can also aid in digestion. The dried culinary lavender used in this recipe isn’t just for flavor; it has calming properties that can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Together, these ingredients make this sourdough not only delicious but also beneficial for your well-being.
Serving Suggestions
This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it fresh out of the oven with a pat of butter for a simple yet indulgent breakfast. Alternatively, you can create a delightful breakfast sandwich by adding cream cheese or ricotta topped with fresh berries for a sweet twist.
For a more elegant presentation, consider serving slices of this bread at your next brunch gathering. Pair it with a selection of jams or honey for dipping, and don’t forget a refreshing herbal tea or a sparkling lemonade to complement the floral notes of the bread. The versatility of this sourdough makes it a wonderful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Sourdough Bread
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 cup water, lukewarm
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
Instructions
Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, active sourdough starter, lukewarm water, salt, sugar, and lemon zest. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Incorporate the blueberries and lavender during the last few minutes of kneading.
First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
Shape the Dough
Once risen, gently deflate the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it in a proofing basket or on a floured surface.
Second Rise
Cover the shaped loaf and let it rise for another hour.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a baking stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
Bake the Bread
Carefully transfer the loaf onto the hot baking stone or sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion!
Tips for Perfecting Your Sourdough
Sourdough bread can be a bit tricky at first, but with practice, you’ll master the art of baking. One essential tip is to ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before you begin. This will give your bread the rise it needs and enhance its flavor. If your starter isn't quite ready, consider feeding it a few hours before you start mixing your dough.
Another key to success is to monitor the dough during the rising stages. The ambient temperature can affect how quickly the dough rises; if your kitchen is cooler, it may take longer than the suggested time. Be patient and allow the dough to double in size for the best results.
Storing Your Sourdough
Once baked, allow your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough to cool completely on a wire rack. To store it, wrap the loaf in a clean kitchen towel or place it in a paper bag to maintain its crusty exterior. Avoid plastic bags, as they can make the bread soggy.
If you have leftovers, you can freeze the bread for future enjoyment. Slice the bread before freezing, so you can easily take out individual pieces as needed. To reheat, simply pop the slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their delightful texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough.
→ How should I store the bread?
Store the bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
→ What can I substitute for lavender?
If you cannot find culinary lavender, you can omit it or substitute with a few drops of lavender oil.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can use a vegan sourdough starter and replace the honey with agave or maple syrup.
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion offers a delightful twist on traditional sourdough bread, blending the tangy flavor of lemons with the sweetness of blueberries and a hint of floral lavender.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Wellness Kitchen Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough Bread
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 cup water, lukewarm
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, active sourdough starter, lukewarm water, salt, sugar, and lemon zest. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Incorporate the blueberries and lavender during the last few minutes of kneading.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
Once risen, gently deflate the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it in a proofing basket or on a floured surface.
Cover the shaped loaf and let it rise for another hour.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a baking stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
Carefully transfer the loaf onto the hot baking stone or sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 54g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 7g