Artisan Caramelized Onion Cheddar Sourdough (Print Version)
Savory caramelized onion, sharp cheddar, and fragrant rosemary baked into crusty sourdough. Perfect for sandwiches or a flavorful side.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 45 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 40 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 85 minutes
Servings: 10 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ The Sourdough Canvas
01 -
1 cup active sourdough starter (fed)
02 -
3 1/2 cups bread flour
03 -
1 1/2 cups warm water (90-95°F)
04 -
2 tsp fine sea salt
→ Golden Onion & Balsamic Swirl
05 -
2 large yellow onions (about 1 1/2 lbs)
06 -
2 tbsp olive oil
07 -
1 tbsp light brown sugar
08 -
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
→ Cheddar & Rosemary Embrace
09 -
6 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
10 -
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
11 -
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
# Instructions:
01 -
Slice 2 large yellow onions. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and soft. Stir in 1 tbsp light brown sugar and 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar. Cook for 5 more minutes, then cool completely.
02 -
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup active sourdough starter, 1 1/2 cups warm water (90-95°F), and 3 1/2 cups bread flour. Mix until just combined and no dry spots remain. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes (autolyse). Then, sprinkle 2 tsp fine sea salt over the dough and knead gently for 2-3 minutes.
03 -
Perform 3-4 sets of stretch and folds over 2-3 hours, resting 30-45 minutes between sets. For each set, gently stretch a portion of the dough up and fold it over itself. This develops gluten and strength for your Artisan Caramelized Onion, Cheddar & Rosemary Sourdough.
04 -
After the final stretch and fold, gently flatten the dough. Evenly spread the cooled caramelized onions, 6 oz sharp cheddar cheese, 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper over the surface. Gently fold the dough over itself a few times to incorporate the inclusions throughout your Artisan Caramelized Onion, Cheddar & Rosemary Sourdough.
05 -
Lightly flour your work surface. Gently shape the dough into a round or oval. Place the shaped dough seam-side up in a floured banneton or a bowl lined with a floured tea towel. Cover and refrigerate for 12-18 hours for a slow, flavorful proof, essential for the best Artisan Caramelized Onion, Cheddar & Rosemary Sourdough.
06 -
Preheat oven to 450°F with a Dutch oven inside for 30 minutes. Carefully transfer the dough to the hot Dutch oven. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool completely before slicing.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra crispy crust, mist the dough with water before the uncovered bake, or place a tray of hot water in the oven during the first 15 minutes of baking.
02 -
Store your cooled Artisan Caramelized Onion, Cheddar & Rosemary Sourdough in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or freeze sliced for longer storage.
03 -
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or smoked gouda, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
04 -
This savory sourdough is fantastic on its own, alongside a hearty soup, or as the base for gourmet sandwiches.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large mixing bowl
02 -
Dutch oven (or heavy-bottomed pot with lid)
03 -
Parchment paper
04 -
Sharp knife
05 -
Cutting board
06 -
Large skillet
07 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 306 kcal
Total Fat: 8 g
Total Carbohydrate: 43 g
Protein: 11 g