If you are trying to watch your calorie intake, you may be wondering how much of a toll your daily bread is taking on your daily count. Fortunately, one slice (32 g) of sourdough bread only has 80 calories, making it a satisfying and relatively low-calorie option.

In addition to being a low-calorie option, sourdough bread also has a unique taste and texture, thanks to the natural fermentation process used to make it. This process also has some health benefits, which we will explore in more detail later.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at sourdough bread, including its nutritional content, health benefits, and how to make your own sourdough starter to try at home.

Calorie Count of Sourdough Bread

As previously mentioned, one slice (32 g) of sourdough bread contains 80 calories. This is comparable to other types of bread, such as white bread, which has around 75 calories per slice, and wheat bread, which has around 80-90 calories per slice. Of course, the number of calories in your slice of bread will depend on its size and thickness, but choosing sourdough bread as your base can be a good way to keep your calorie intake under control.

Understanding Serving Size of Sourdough Bread

While one slice of sourdough bread is a manageable size for most people, it's important to keep serving sizes in mind if you're trying to control your calorie intake. A serving of bread is generally considered to be one slice, which is around 32 grams. However, many people eat more than one serving of bread in a sitting, such as a sandwich with two slices of bread or a piece of toast with butter and jam. Keep in mind that each extra serving will add around 80 calories to your meal!

Benefits of Eating Sourdough Bread

Sourdough bread has some unique health benefits that set it apart from other types of bread. One of the most important of these is its natural fermentation process. During the fermentation process, bacteria and yeast break down the carbohydrates in the bread into more easily digestible forms. This makes sourdough bread easier on your digestive system and can help keep your blood sugar levels more stable after eating. In addition, sourdough bread is generally made with only three ingredients: flour, water, and salt. This means it is a relatively unprocessed food and contains no added sugars or preservatives.

Sourdough Bread vs Other Bread Varieties

While there are many different types of bread available, sourdough bread has some unique nutritional qualities that may make it a better choice for some people. Compared to white bread, which is made with refined white flour, sourdough bread is made with whole grain flour. This means it contains more fiber and other important nutrients, such as B vitamins. Compared to wheat bread, which is also made with whole grain flour, sourdough bread is often lower in calories and has a unique taste and texture.

Sourdough Bread Recipes

If you're looking to try your hand at making sourdough bread at home, there are many different recipes and techniques you can use. One popular method is the no-knead method, which requires minimal hands-on time but a longer fermentation period. Another method is the traditional sourdough method, which requires a sourdough starter and more hands-on work. Try experimenting with different recipes and methods to find the one that works best for you!

How to Store Sourdough Bread Properly

To keep your sourdough bread fresh for as long as possible, it's important to store it properly. First, let the bread cool completely before storing it. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, foil, or a bread bag to keep it from drying out. You can also freeze sourdough bread to extend its shelf life, but be sure to wrap it well and defrost it slowly in the fridge or on the counter.

Health Risks Associated with Eating Sourdough Bread

While sourdough bread has some unique health benefits, it may not be the best choice for everyone. People with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance should avoid sourdough bread, as it still contains gluten. In addition, sourdough bread can be high in sodium depending on the recipe, so it may not be the best choice for people with high blood pressure. As with any type of food, it's important to consider your own unique health needs when deciding whether sourdough bread is right for you.

The History of Sourdough Bread

Sourdough bread has a long and fascinating history, dating back thousands of years. It is thought to have originated in ancient Egypt, where it was a popular food among the ruling class. From there, it spread to Greece and Rome, and eventually became a staple food in Europe in the Middle Ages. Today, sourdough bread is still a popular and beloved food all over the world.

Make Your Own Sourdough Starter

If you want to try making your own sourdough bread at home, you'll need to start with a sourdough starter. A sourdough starter is a mixture of flour and water that is left to ferment for several days or weeks, depending on the recipe. This mixture contains wild yeast and bacteria that help give sourdough bread its unique taste and texture. Making your own sourdough starter can be a fun and rewarding process, and there are many tutorials and recipes available online to help you get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sourdough Bread

Still have questions about sourdough bread? Here are some common questions and answers to help you out. Q: Is sourdough bread gluten-free? A: No, sourdough bread still contains gluten, so it is not a safe option for people with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance.