A loaf of sourdough typically requires three days to make; however, this doesn’t mean you actively spend three days on it. This is a key point emphasized by Kate Freebairn, a sourdough recipe developer and food blogger from rural Western Australia. She aims to correct the misconception that sourdough baking consumes excessive time.

The Myth of Time-Consuming Baking

Freebairn notes that many beginners shy away from sourdough, believing it’s a time-intensive endeavor. Alongside this belief, they fear it might disrupt their daily routines. According to Freebairn, although sourdough’s process spans days, the actual hands-on time is minimal—around an hour.

Her cookbook, Easy Sourdough on Any Schedule, focuses on integrating bread baking into daily life.

Incorporating Sourdough into a Busy Schedule

For those with a regular workday, Freebairn suggests a simple routine. Feed the starter before going to bed, mix the dough in the morning, and tend to it during breakfast. Let the dough ferment while you’re at work, then shape and refrigerate it in the evening. The next morning, bake a fresh loaf while having coffee. This makes the process manageable and less intrusive.

The Benefits of Sourdough

Sourdough offers several advantages. Due to natural fermentation, it aids digestion, stabilizes blood sugar, and provides prebiotics that support gut health. Freebairn also highlights taste as a major benefit, noting its superior flavor.

Essential Tools and Patience

Beginners don’t need specialized gear. A starter can be kept in a reused jar, and a regular bowl can replace a proofing basket. Freebairn herself uses an affordable Dutch oven.

Patience is crucial. Freebairn advises expecting imperfections in initial attempts. Mastery may require five to ten tries. Each loaf offers a learning opportunity. Her guidance: Start with available resources, integrate baking into your lifestyle, and don’t stress over an imperfect start.

Easy Sourdough on Any Schedule will be available in September.

Peter Burke is a lifestyle editor at Fox News Digital, focusing on food and drink.