Note: Approximately 16 hours before the mix, disperse the sourdough culture into the water, add the rye flour and mix till smooth. Cover with plastic and leave at room temperature to ripen. At the same time, make the soaker by pouring the water over the old bread. Cover the soaker with plastic to prevent evaporation.

Mixing

Mix the final dough by adding all the ingredients to the mixer (first remove a portion of the rye to perpetuate the culture). If using a spiral mixer, mix on first speed for 3 minutes to incorporate ingredients. Check the hydration and correct as necessary: the dough should have a moderate looseness. Mix on second speed for about 1 minute. Gluten development will be minimal. Add the walnuts and mix until evenly incorporated.

Desired Dough Temperature

80-82°F

Bulk Fermentation

45 minutes

Final Proof

about 75 minutes at 85°F

Shaping

Divide and shape round or oval loaves of desired weight

Baking

Bake in a steamed oven at 450°F for about 50 minutes (for a 1 kg loaf)

Sourdough

Final Dough

Formulation courtesy of King Arthur's Flour