Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Berry Jam
Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Journey
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Berry Jam is a delightful combination of tangy lemon, sweet blueberries, and the unique flavor of sourdough. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this recipe will elevate your baking game!
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is a perfect blend of flavors that will brighten your day. The tangy lemons and sweet blueberries create a delightful contrast, while the sourdough base adds a unique depth to the bread.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh lemon and blueberry flavors
- Unique sourdough texture that's both chewy and soft
- Perfectly paired with homemade berry jam for a sweet touch
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Berry Jam is a harmonious blend of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors that will delight your taste buds. The bright notes of lemon zest complement the natural sweetness of ripe blueberries, creating a refreshing profile that is perfect for any time of day. Each bite offers a burst of fruitiness, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
The sourdough base adds a unique dimension to this recipe. Its slightly tangy flavor enhances the overall taste, while its chewy yet soft texture provides a satisfying mouthfeel. This contrast between the sourdough and the sweet blueberries is a delightful experience that keeps you coming back for more.
Why Sourdough?
Sourdough bread is not only delicious but also has several health benefits. The fermentation process involved in making sourdough helps to break down gluten, making it easier to digest for some individuals. Additionally, sourdough has a lower glycemic index compared to regular bread, which means it won’t spike your blood sugar levels as quickly.
Moreover, sourdough is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. The longer fermentation time not only enhances the flavor but also increases the availability of nutrients. By incorporating sourdough into your baking repertoire, you're not just creating tasty treats but also nourishing your body.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results when making Lemon Blueberry Sourdough, it's essential to use a well-fed sourdough starter. Make sure your starter is active and bubbly before beginning the recipe. This will ensure that your bread rises beautifully and develops the characteristic sour flavor that sourdough is known for.
Additionally, when adding blueberries, be gentle to prevent them from bursting. You can lightly coat them in flour before mixing them into the dough, which helps keep them from sinking to the bottom during baking. Finally, allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure and prevent gummy slices.
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Berry Jam
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Mix well.
Add the flour, salt, and lemon zest. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Add the blueberries gently to avoid crushing them.
Knead and Rise
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Make the Berry Jam
While the bread is baking, combine the mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Let cool.
Serve
Let the bread cool completely before slicing. Serve with the homemade berry jam. Enjoy!
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Storing Your Bread
To keep your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough fresh, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to two days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placing it in the freezer. This way, you can enjoy your homemade bread for weeks to come.
When you're ready to enjoy frozen bread, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the toaster for a quick and delicious snack. This method preserves the flavors and texture, ensuring that each slice tastes as good as the day it was baked.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough pairs wonderfully with various toppings. While it's delightful on its own, spreading a layer of homemade berry jam adds an extra layer of sweetness and flavor. For a more decadent treat, consider topping it with cream cheese or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful breakfast or dessert.
You can also serve it alongside a refreshing cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect centerpiece for brunch gatherings or afternoon teas with friends. The versatility of this bread allows it to shine in any setting, whether casual or more formal.
Exploring Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of berries in your jam or even incorporate other fruits like raspberries or blackberries into the bread itself. Adding a handful of nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can also introduce a delightful crunch and additional flavor complexity.
For those who prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, consider increasing the lemon zest or adding a splash of lemon juice to the dough. Each variation offers a unique twist, allowing you to create a personalized version of this delightful recipe.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough to avoid excess moisture.
→ How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread should be golden brown, and it will sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
→ Can I substitute the sourdough starter?
Yes, you can use store-bought yeast. However, the flavor will differ from traditional sourdough.
→ How should I store the bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Berry Jam
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Berry Jam is a delightful combination of tangy lemon, sweet blueberries, and the unique flavor of sourdough. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this recipe will elevate your baking game!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Seasonal Flavor Journey
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Berry Jam
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Mix well.
Add the flour, salt, and lemon zest. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Add the blueberries gently to avoid crushing them.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
While the bread is baking, combine the mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Let cool.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing. Serve with the homemade berry jam. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 64g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 7g