Homemade sourdough bread is the ultimate comfort food, with its chewy crust, soft interior, and tangy flavor. Crafting this masterpiece at home allows you to control every aspect of the process, from the type of flour to the fermentation time. The result is bread that’s fresher, tastier, and often more nutritious than what you can buy at the store. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the sourdough-making process, from creating and maintaining your starter to shaping, scoring, and baking your loaf. Along the way, you’ll learn about the science behind sourdough, tips for achieving the perfect rise, and tricks for enhancing flavor. Once you taste your first homemade sourdough bread, you’ll understand why so many home bakers are hooked.