Charcoal Sesame Artisan Sourdough Recipe

There’s something truly magical about baking your own Charcoal Sesame Artisan Sourdough. This striking black loaf, infused with the nutty richness of sesame and the deep, earthy tones of activated charcoal, is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual masterpiece. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting with artisan bread recipes, this creation will elevate your kitchen game and impress anyone who takes a bite.

The use of charcoal in bread might sound unconventional, but it brings a subtle smokiness and a stunning color that pairs beautifully with the toasty flavor of sesame seeds. Combined with the tangy complexity of a sourdough starter recipe, this loaf embodies the heart of traditional baking with a modern twist. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step to craft this unique bread at home, making it accessible even if you’re searching for easy bread recipes.

From the rustic crust to the tender crumb, this recipe captures the essence of a true boulangerie experience. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the world of homemade bread recipes with a loaf that’s as bold as it is delicious.

Recipe Overview

Cuisine: Fusion/Artisan
Category: Bread
Prep Time: 12 hours (including resting)
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 12 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8-10 slices

What You’ll Need

Creating a perfect Charcoal Sesame Artisan Sourdough requires a few key ingredients and tools, each playing a vital role in achieving that signature texture and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component matters in this standout among artisan bread recipes.

• Flour: The foundation of any bread, providing structure and chew.
• Sourdough Starter: Adds natural fermentation for a tangy depth and airy crumb.
• Activated Charcoal: Gives the loaf its striking black hue and a hint of smokiness.
• Sesame Seeds: Contributes a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch.
• Salt and Water: Essential for flavor balance and hydration of the dough.
• Dutch Oven: Traps steam during baking for a crispy, crackly crust.
• Banneton or Proofing Basket: Supports the dough’s shape during the final rise.

Discover the striking black dough of this unique sourdough before it transforms in the oven

INGREDIENTS

• – 3 cups bread flour
• – 1/2 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
• – 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
• – 2 teaspoons activated charcoal powder (food-grade)
• – 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (plus extra for topping)
• – 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt

PREPARATION

1. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups bread flour, 1 1/2 cups water, and 1/2 cup active sourdough starter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate.
2. Add flavorings: Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons activated charcoal powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt, and 2 tablespoons sesame seeds. Knead for about 5 minutes until fully incorporated and the dough turns uniformly dark.
3. Bulk fermentation: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise at room temperature for 8-10 hours, or until it has doubled in size. Perform a few stretch-and-fold actions every 2 hours during the first half of this period to build strength.
4. Shape the loaf: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a tight round ball by tucking the edges under. Place it seam-side up in a floured banneton or proofing basket.
5. Final proof: Cover and let it rise for another 2 hours at room temperature, or refrigerate for a cold proof of up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
6. Preheat oven: Place a Dutch oven inside your oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes before baking.
7. Bake: Carefully transfer the dough into the hot Dutch oven, seam-side down. Sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top. Score the dough with a sharp blade if desired. Cover and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the crust is deep and crisp.
8. Cool: Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the crumb to set.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

• Calories: 180 per slice
• Carbohydrates: 34g per slice
• Protein: 6g per slice
• Fat: 2g per slice
• Fiber: 2g per slice
• Sodium: 290mg per slice

Note: Values are approximate and based on a serving size of one slice from a loaf yielding 10 slices.

The Role of Activated Charcoal in Baking

Activated charcoal is more than just a trendy ingredient; it’s a natural detoxifier that adds a dramatic aesthetic to your Charcoal Sesame Artisan Sourdough. Food-grade charcoal is safe for consumption in small amounts and imparts a subtle earthy note without overpowering the bread’s flavor. It’s key to achieving that deep black color that makes this loaf so visually striking.

Why Sesame Seeds Complement Sourdough

Incorporating sesame seeds into sesame recipes like this one adds a delightful crunch and nutty undertone that pairs perfectly with the tang of sourdough. Toasting the seeds lightly before adding them can enhance their flavor, making every bite of this artisan bread a textural delight.

Mastering Your Sourdough Starter

A robust sourdough starter recipe is the heart of any great artisan loaf. Ensure your starter is active and bubbly by feeding it regularly with equal parts flour and water. If it doubles in size within 4-6 hours after feeding, it’s ready to leaven your dough effectively.

Tips for a Perfect Crust

Achieving a crackly crust in bread recipes homemade like this requires steam during the initial baking phase. Using a Dutch oven traps moisture from the dough, mimicking a professional bread oven. For extra crunch, mist the loaf with water just before baking.

Adapting for Bread Maker Machines

If you’re exploring bread maker recipes, you can adapt this recipe by using the dough cycle to mix and knead. Add the charcoal and sesame seeds during the mix-in phase, then shape and bake in a Dutch oven as directed for that artisan finish.

Storage and Freshness Tips

To keep your Charcoal Sesame Artisan Sourdough fresh, store it in a breathable bread bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the crumb; instead, freeze sliced portions for longer storage.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is Activated Charcoal Safe to Eat in Bread?

Yes, food-grade activated charcoal is safe to consume in small quantities, such as the amount used in this Charcoal Sesame Artisan Sourdough recipe. It’s commonly used in culinary applications for its color and subtle flavor. However, it should not be consumed in large amounts or too frequently, as it can interfere with nutrient absorption. Always source food-grade charcoal from reputable suppliers.

Can I Make This Recipe Without a Sourdough Starter?

While a sourdough starter recipe is central to the flavor and texture of this bread, you can substitute it with a commercial yeast alternative if needed. Use about 1 teaspoon of instant yeast mixed with the flour and water, and reduce the fermentation time to around 2-3 hours for the first rise. Keep in mind that the flavor won’t have the same tangy depth.

How Do I Know If My Dough Is Properly Fermented?

Proper fermentation is key to great artisan bread. Your dough should roughly double in size during the bulk fermentation stage and feel airy and slightly tacky. Pressing a finger into the dough should leave a slight indent that slowly springs back. If it feels dense or overly sticky, it may need more time to rise.

Can I Use Other Seeds Instead of Sesame?

Absolutely! While sesame seeds are a highlight in this recipe, you can experiment with other options in sesame recipes. Poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, or even flaxseeds can work well, offering different textures and flavors. Toast them lightly for an extra flavor boost before adding to the dough.

Discover the bold beauty of this unique black loaf