Sourdough bread has seen a renaissance in recent years, captivating the hearts – and taste buds – of bread lovers worldwide. Unlike traditional bread, which often relies on commercial yeast for leavening, sourdough harnesses the power of wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria found in the environment.

This fermentation process not only creates a distinctive tangy flavor but also contributes to its unique texture and crust.

In Riyadh, several bakeries are stepping up to the sourdough plate, each offering their take on this beloved classic.

We’ll review four standout bakeries in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Bread Ahead, Flour & Firewood, Greenmill Bakery, and The Rustic Bakery – each of which can be conveniently ordered through Hunger Station.

The Art of Sourdough

Before diving into the delicious specifics of each bakery, it’s essential to understand what sets sourdough apart from traditional bread. Traditional bread-making typically uses commercial yeast, which acts quickly to produce carbon dioxide, allowing the dough to rise in a matter of hours. In contrast, sourdough requires a longer fermentation process, often spanning over several hours or even days.

The Fermentation Process

Sourdough relies on a “starter,” a mixture of flour and water that captures wild yeast and bacteria from the environment. This starter ferments the dough, creating natural acids and gases that not only leaven the bread but also contribute to its complex flavors and textures. The presence of lactic acid bacteria gives sourdough its characteristic tang, while the slow fermentation enhances its digestibility and nutritional profile.

Texture and Crust

The air-to-dough ratio (how ‘open-crumb’ it is) in sourdough affects the final loaf’s crumb structure – how airy or dense it feels when you bite into it. A well-made sourdough should have a light, open crumb with larger holes, achieved through careful kneading and fermentation.

The crust, on the other hand, is a result of the Maillard reaction and caramelization during baking, leading to a range of textures from crunchy to waxy and elastic. The type of flour used, the hydration level of the dough, and the baking temperature all play critical roles in achieving the desired crust characteristics.

Now, let’s delve into the offerings from these four bakeries, comparing their sourdough loaves and highlighting what makes each one unique.

Bread Ahead

Starting with Bread Ahead, this bakery offers a solid White and Brown Sourdough loaf that strikes a fine balance between taste and texture. The dough isn’t quite as airy as some of its competitors, resulting in a denser crumb, but some prefer this when toasting. The outer crust is decent and the bread boasts a nourishing bitterness that makes it an excellent option for an every day and all-purpose bread.

When it comes to sandwiches, though, I found myself looking elsewhere. Don’t misquote me here though, I still buy the brown sourdough (not pictured) from here for daily purpose, but if we are splitting heirs I must highlight there are other options which are different and arguably a bit better in terms of texture and flavor if you are looking for something that deviates from the standard sourdough loaf.

Bread Ahead is still a commendable choice for anyone who enjoys a hearty slice of bread with a robust flavor profile. Not to mention the rest of their menu which is mostly impeccable, the almond croissant for example, which I will be writing a similar article comparing it with others in due course.

Flour & Firewood

Next up is Flour & Firewood, which offers a plain sourdough loaf very much in line with Bread Ahead -solid, dependable, and delightful for toasting. The crust is decent, and the air-to-dough ratio is very good, it’s a solid contender, but once again, if we must differentiate from the remaining contenders it still falls into an all-purpose category.

Flour & Firewood’s sourdough is undoubtedly great for morning toast or a simple cheese spread, in fact sometimes an overly flavorful bread can be distracting and undesirable, so even if it’s not an “all guns blazing” loaf doesn’t mean it’s not one to go for, it all depends on your personal preference.

Greenmill Bakery

Greenmill Bakery offers a daily and weekly sourdough loaf (the latter baked with blushed tomatoes and basil) and brings a delightful twist to the sourdough offering. The daily loaf comprises sour and fruity nut aromas, a very unique flavor and a must-try! The air-to-dough ratio is nearly perfect, creating a light, open crumb that’s very addictive.

The crust differs from what you would expect from a traditional artisanal loaf, showcasing a more waxy and elastic texture with less crunch. This doesn’t detract from the loaf’s overall quality however; rather, it puts it in a league of its own. A fantastic option for both toasting and sandwiches. If you’re in the mood for a loaf that with a truly memorable, with a fragrant taste and near perfect open-crumb, Greenmill Bakery should be at the top of your list.

The Rustic Bakery

Finally, we arrive at the pinnacle of sourdough excellence: The Rustic Bakery. Their seeds sourdough loaf is a masterclass in balance, featuring an almost perfect air-to-dough ratio. The loaf emanates wonderful seedy and nutty aromas that heighten the overall flavor experience. The crust is classic – crunchy and artisanal, just as one would expect from a top-tier bakery.

If the fruity notes from Greenmill and the classic characteristics of The Rustic Bakery had a bread baby, it would make for the ultimate sourdough loaf.

Bonus: Rustic Bakery’s Ciabatta

As an added bonus, let’s take a moment to appreciate the ciabatta loaf from The Rustic Bakery. Some of the bakeries in this article offer this also, but they simply do not compete. This bread exemplifies classic crunch and texture, with wonderfully light and wonderfully airy dough that’s perfect for those who appreciate a more traditional Italian-style bread.

The bakers at Rustic are true artisans, crafting an eclectic selection of breads, Portuguese custard pastries, and Italian desserts that reflect their commitment to quality and tradition.

Sourdough in Riyadh: A Matter of Choice

Riyadh’s sourdough scene offers an exciting array of options, each bakery bringing its unique flair to this beloved bread. While Bread Ahead and Flour & Firewood provide solid loaves, it’s Greenmill Bakery and The Rustic Bakery that truly shine, especially for fresh sandwiches. Whether you’re in the mood for the fruity and nutty notes of Greenmill or the classic artisanal crust of Rustic, there’s a sourdough loaf waiting for you to enjoy.

So, the next time you’re on Hunger Station, consider treating yourself to a sourdough adventure – your taste buds will thank you!

After exploring the finest sourdough loaves Riyadh has to offer, why not switch gears and dive into a completely different culinary experience at SUSHISAMBA Riyadh, where vibrant flavors and a fusion of cultures await.