Everything You Need to Make Sourdough Bread

July 17, 2025

There are two main methods to making a loaf of sourdough bread: the stretch and fold method and the no-knead method. Depending on which method you choose will determine what is needed, so let’s talk about the differences.

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Stretch and Fold Method. This method is very hands-on in order to develop the gluten. There are times of light stretching of the dough and folding it, you’ll do this 3-6 times between rises. There are similar methods called Coil Fold, Slap and Fold, and Lamination.

No-Knead Method. This is a more hands-off method because it doesn’t involve any kneading of the dough (so no stretch and folds, etc), it relies on the natural development of the gluten. You simply mix all the ingredients together, let it ferment for 8 hours or overnight, then allot 1-2 hours for the dough to rise and then bake.

I personally love the no-knead method, and if you’ve made any of my sourdough recipes or have my eBook, you’ll know that is the approach I use and teach with. If you are to use the stretch and fold method, besides the normal measuring cups, teaspoons, whisk, etc, you will need bread proofing baskets, bowl scrapper, dough scrapper, a bread lame, dough whisk and a few more items. For this method, I recommend buying an entire kit like this one off Amazon, which will have all your bread-making needs.

For the no-knead method, all you need is a large, non-plastic mixing bowl, teaspoons, measuring cups, whisk, wooden spoon, 4-cup glass measuring cup, tea towel, plastic wrap and a dutch oven (if you prefer one without enamel, here’s a great option off Amazon).

No-Knead Recipes You Will Love

If you try the recipes above or take my Simple Sourdough Course, give them five stars and I’ll see you in the Simple Sourdough community.

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