Feed your sourdough starter 4-12 hours before beginning this recipe.
113 g starter
Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, water, and salt. Mix with a spatula until the dough starts to stiffen. Finish incorporating the flour with your hands until the dough is slightly sticky and shaggy. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp tea towel and let it rest for 30-40 minutes.
340 g water, 567 g flour, 20 g Salt
Stretch and Folds
Perform 3 sets of stretches and folds.
To do this, grasp the edge of the dough, lift it upwards, and fold it back into the center of the bowl. Rotate the bowl a quarter turn and repeat 1-2 more times to complete one round. Do this twice more, spacing the sets 30 minutes to 1 hour apart.
Bulk Ferment
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let it ferment in a warm spot until it doubles in size and bubbles appear on the surface. This can take 4-12 hours.
Shaping
Gently turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Carefully deflate it and shape it into a rectangle.
Evenly sprinkle the grated cheese and jalapeño slices over the dough.
135 g medium cheddar cheese, 40 g jalapenos
Fold the right side of the dough into the center, then fold the left side over the first fold.
Starting from one end, tightly roll the dough like a cinnamon roll, tuck the ends under, and flip it seam-side down. Cup the sides and rotate the dough in a circular motion to tighten the surface.
Transfer the dough to a floured banneton basket, cover with a tea towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or refrigerate overnight.
Baking
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured piece of parchment paper and score the top about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
Place it in a cold Dutch oven with the lid on, and put it in a cold oven. Set the temperature to 250°C and bake for 40 minutes.
Lower the oven temperature to 200°C, remove the lid, sprinkle with more cheese (optional), and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
grated cheese to top
Cool the bread on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Resting and Cooling: Allow the baked bread to rest on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing. This redistributes moisture for a softer crumb and easier slicing.
Experimentation: Sourdough baking varies based on environmental factors and flour types. Adjust timings and techniques to suit your kitchen and preferences.
Storage: Store cooled bread in a paper bag or bread box to maintain freshness. Avoid plastic bags, which can soften the crust. Enjoy within a few days for optimal taste and texture.