Many bakers speak of their sourdough starter as if it has a magical life of its own, so it can be intimidating to those new to the sourdough world. With Artisan Sourdough Made Simple, Emilie Raffa removes readers’ fear and proves that baking with sourdough is easy and can fit into even a working parent’s schedule! Any new baker quickly accrues questions, and Raffa has the answers. As a professionally trained chef and avid home baker, she uses her experience to guide others through the science and art of sourdough. With step-by-step master recipe guides, she teaches readers how to create and care for their own starters (plus, they get more than 60 unique recipes to bake a variety of breads that suit their every need). Specialty recipes include Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Bread, Golden Sesame Semolina Bread, Blistered Asiago Rolls with Sweet Apples and Rosemary, No-Knead Tomato Basil Focaccia, Make-Ahead Stuffed Spinach, and Artichoke Dip Braid, and Raspberry Gingersnap Twist.

With the continuing popularity of the whole foods movement, home cooks are returning to the ancient practice of baking bread, and sourdough is rising to the forefront. Through fermentation, sourdough bread is easier on digestion (often enough for people who are sensitive to gluten) and healthier. Artisan Sourdough Made Simple gives everyone the knowledge and confidence to join the fun, from their first rustic loaf to beyond.