There’s something deeply grounding about mixing, folding, and baking. Since my surgeries, the kitchen has become more than just a space to prepare food—it’s become a place of presence and peace. When I bake, especially something bright and nurturing like this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough, I feel a connection to the rhythm of life again. The rising dough, the pop of juicy berries, the zest of lemon—it’s all a quiet reminder that healing takes time and joy can be found in simple rituals.
This loaf is subtly sweet, naturally leavened, and absolutely bursting with flavor. The combination of tart lemon and fresh (or frozen!) blueberries gives a burst of spring in every bite. Whether you’re baking to share or simply to nourish your own heart, this one’s a favorite.
? Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Recipe
Ingredients:
- 100g bubbly, active sourdough starter
- 375g warm water
- 500g bread flour (you can use a mix of all-purpose and bread flour too)
- 10g salt
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (toss in a bit of flour to prevent sinking)
- Optional: 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for a touch more sweetness
Instructions:
- Mix: In a large bowl, combine starter and water. Stir in flour until fully incorporated. Cover and rest (autolyse) for 30 minutes.
- Add Salt + Lemon Zest: Sprinkle salt and lemon zest on top of dough. Gently fold in until evenly mixed.
- Bulk Fermentation: Over the next 4–5 hours, perform stretch and folds every 30–45 minutes. Add blueberries gently during the second fold to avoid crushing them.
- Shape + Cold Proof: Shape your dough and place it in a floured banneton. Cover and refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours).
- Bake: Preheat oven to 475°F with Dutch oven inside. Score your loaf and bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for another 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool: Let your loaf rest at least 1 hour before slicing (the hardest part!).
? A Gentle Reflection
As the loaf rises, so do we. Through setbacks, surgeries, uncertainty, and slow healing—rituals like baking remind us that care and consistency matter. I hope this lemon blueberry loaf brings some sunshine to your day and a sense of steadiness to your week.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to see it! Tag me on social media and let me know how yours turned out.
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