Keto Sourdough Bread

Keto Sourdough Bread: A Low-Carb, Gluten-Free Bread That’s Full of Flavor

This keto sourdough bread recipe combines the best of both worlds: the tangy flavor and chewy texture of traditional sourdough bread, with a low-carb twist. The use of keto-friendly ingredients like almond flour, psyllium husk powder, and coconut flour ensures that this bread maintains the same deliciously chewy texture and flavorful crust that you love, without the carbs. Whether you’re using it for sandwiches, toast, or dipping into olive oil, this keto sourdough bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

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Why Keto Sourdough Bread Is Perfect for Low-Carb Diets

Traditional sourdough bread is made with wheat flour, which is high in carbs. For anyone on a ketogenic or low-carb diet, consuming wheat flour or other grains is generally not an option due to the high carbohydrate content. This recipe is specifically formulated to keep the bread low-carb while still delivering the signature sourdough tang and texture.

Key Benefits of Keto Sourdough Bread:

1. Low-Carb, High-Fiber: Unlike traditional bread that’s made from wheat flour, this keto sourdough bread uses a combination of almond flour, coconut flour, and psyllium husk. These ingredients provide fiber and fat, which are essential on a ketogenic diet, while keeping the carbohydrate count low.
2. Gluten-Free: For those who are sensitive to gluten or following a gluten-free diet, this recipe is a great option. The absence of wheat flour makes it naturally gluten-free without sacrificing taste or texture.
3. High in Healthy Fats: The addition of ingredients like coconut flour, almond flour, and psyllium husk adds healthy fats, which are important for maintaining ketosis. The fats also contribute to the bread’s moist, chewy texture.
4. Sourdough Flavor: By using a combination of active dry yeast and a bit of vinegar, you can achieve the classic tangy, slightly sour flavor found in traditional sourdough bread, making this recipe a true keto version of the classic.

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Key Ingredients for Keto Sourdough Bread

To make the best keto sourdough bread, you’ll need the following ingredients. They are specifically chosen for their ability to mimic the texture and flavor of traditional sourdough bread while keeping the recipe low in carbs and gluten-free.

1. Almond Flour (1 ½ cups)
   • Almond flour is a low-carb, gluten-free flour that is commonly used in keto and paleo baking. It’s made from finely ground almonds and provides a rich, nutty flavor to the bread.
   • Nutritional Info (per ¼ cup):
     Calories: 160
     Carbs: 6g
     Fiber: 3g
     Net Carbs: 3g
     Fat: 14g
     Protein: 6g
2. Coconut Flour (½ cup)
   • Coconut flour is a gluten-free, low-carb flour made from dried coconut meat. It is highly absorbent, which is why you only need a small amount for this bread. It adds a light texture and a mild coconut flavor to the bread.
   • Nutritional Info (per ¼ cup):
     Calories: 120
     Carbs: 16g
     Fiber: 10g
     Net Carbs: 6g
     Fat: 4g
     Protein: 4g
3. Psyllium Husk Powder (4 tablespoons)
   • Psyllium husk is a soluble fiber that’s commonly used in gluten-free and low-carb baking. It helps bind the ingredients together and adds structure to the bread, making it chewy and firm, similar to traditional bread.
   • Nutritional Info (per 1 tablespoon):
     Calories: 20
     Carbs: 5g
     Fiber: 5g
     Net Carbs: 0g
     Fat: 0g
     Protein: 0g
4. Active Dry Yeast (1 teaspoon)
   • Yeast is essential for giving sourdough its signature tangy flavor and helping the dough rise. In this keto version, the yeast adds the desired airy texture and the characteristic sourdough taste.
   • Nutritional Info (per 1 teaspoon):
     Calories: 20
     Carbs: 1g
     Fiber: 0g
     Net Carbs: 1g
     Fat: 0g
     Protein: 2g
5. Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon)
   • Apple cider vinegar enhances the tangy flavor of the bread and also supports the activation of the yeast, contributing to the classic sourdough flavor profile.
   • Nutritional Info (per 1 tablespoon):
     Calories: 0
     Carbs: 0g
     Fiber: 0g
     Net Carbs: 0g
     Fat: 0g
     Protein: 0g
6. Eggs (3 large)
   • Eggs are an essential ingredient in keto bread as they help bind the ingredients together and provide moisture. They also contribute to the bread’s soft, fluffy texture and help with rising.
   • Nutritional Info (per large egg):
     Calories: 70
     Carbs: 1g
     Protein: 6g
     Fat: 5g
7. Salt (1 teaspoon)
   • Salt enhances the flavor of the bread and balances out the sweetness of the almond flour and coconut flour. It also helps with yeast activation, contributing to the bread’s rise.
   • Nutritional Info (per 1 teaspoon):
     Calories: 0
     Carbs: 0g
     Fiber: 0g
     Net Carbs: 0g
     Fat: 0g
     Protein: 0g
8. Warm Water (1 cup)
   • Warm water is used to activate the yeast and bring the dough together. It should be warm, but not too hot, as this can kill the yeast.

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Instructions for Keto Sourdough Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, psyllium husk powder, and salt. Ensure that there are no lumps in the mixture. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

• In a separate small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it may be expired, and you should use fresh yeast.
• Once the yeast is activated, add the apple cider vinegar and mix well.

Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

• In the bowl with the dry ingredients, create a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Pour in the yeast mixture. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, mix everything together until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

• Turn the dough out onto a surface lightly dusted with almond flour. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. It should have a similar texture to traditional bread dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more almond flour, but be careful not to add too much, as it could affect the texture.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

• Place the dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The dough will rise slowly due to the low-carb nature of the ingredients, so be patient.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Shape the dough into a loaf or place it in a bread pan lined with parchment paper. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dough in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also insert a toothpick to check if it comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Bread

• Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This cooling period is essential for the bread to set and achieve the right texture.

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Nutritional Information per Slice (Based on 12 Servings)

• Calories: 140
• Total Carbs: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Net Carbs: 1g
• Fat: 11g
• Protein: 5g

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SmartPoints (WW)

For those following the Weight Watchers program, this Keto Sourdough Bread comes in at 3 SmartPoints per slice (based on 12 servings).

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Tips for Perfect Keto Sourdough Bread

1. Don’t Rush the Rising Process: Since this bread is made with low-carb ingredients, it may take longer to rise than traditional sourdough bread. Be patient, and let the dough rise until it has doubled in size.
2. Use a Dutch Oven for a Crusty Loaf: If you want a crispy, crusty exterior, bake your bread in a preheated Dutch oven with the lid on for the first 20 minutes, then remove the lid for the remaining time. This helps the bread retain moisture while it bakes.
3. Store Properly: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have keto-friendly bread on hand.
4. Add Flavor Variations: Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough to customize the flavor of your bread. Garlic powder or onion powder can also add a savory twist.

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Conclusion

This Keto Sourdough Bread recipe is a game-changer for anyone on a ketogenic or low-carb diet. It’s the perfect bread alternative that combines the tangy, chewy texture of traditional sourdough with the low-carb ingredients necessary for keto. Whether you’re using it for sandwiches, toast, or as a side dish, it’s sure to become a staple in your diet.

Enjoy the satisfaction of having bread on your keto journey without compromising on taste or texture. This recipe is simple to follow, and the result is a delicious, nutritious bread that’s perfect for any occasion.