Sourdough Boule Shaping

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What is a boule?

Boule is French for ball and is commonly used to describe a round-shaped bread. A boule is one of many ways to shape dough, it’s a simple shaping style that’s perfect for beginners.

What you need

banneton or an 8-inch bowl all-purpose flour rice flour bench knife tea towel (optional) plastic wrap

Purpose of shaping

Allows dough to rise up instead of spread out  Creates surface tension which results in a crispy crust Redistributes yeast throughout the dough, giving them a fresh amount food for the final proof

1

At the end of bulk fermentation, turn bread dough out on a well-floured surface. Flip the dough over (divide if needed).

2

Tuck a bench knife on the bottom of the dough and round it into a taut ball. Let dough rest covered with a tea towel on your bench for 15 minutes

3

Using your bench knife turn the dough over so the top of the dough is now on the bottom, fold the bottom towards the middle.

4

Starting on the left side, stretch the dough as far as it will go without tearing and fold it towards the center.

5

Repeat with the right side of the dough, folding it over the left flap.

6

Stretch the top and fold it over the dough, use your fingertips to gently push the dough until it completely flips over.

7

Use the blades of your palm to tuck the bottom of the dough, lightly drag the dough in a circular motion 2 to 3 times.

8

Using your bench knife, pick up the dough and nestle it into a proofing basket dusted with rice flour with the seam side up, pinch the seam shut

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