Sourdough rye brownies: a deliciously unique treat

Ingredients for Sourdough rye brownies

• 72 g wholegrain rye flour

• 57 g water

• 36 g rye or wheat starter, 8–12 hours after last refreshment

• 194 g wholegrain rye flour

• 250 g whole eggs, beaten

• 100 g caster sugar

• 195 g unsalted butter, softened

• 475 g dark chocolate, at least 66% cocoa solids

• 77 g caster sugar

• 265 g dark brown sugar

• 70 g good quality cocoa powder

• 5 g vanilla extract

• 3 g baking soda

• 2 g sea salt

• plus extra for sprinkling (optional)

How to make Sourdough rye brownies

1. Place all the Stage 1 ingredients into a 300 ml (½ pint) jar or container with a lid. Mix well, cover, and leave at warm room temperature for 4–6 hours.

2. Combine the Stage 2 ingredients and 125 g of the starter in a large bowl. Stir thoroughly with a whisk, cover, and leave in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or longer if preferred. Although it won’t rise much, you should see some bubbles forming on the surface as evidence of fermentation.

3. In the hour before you plan to mix and bake, melt the butter and chocolate in a small heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Once melted, set aside to cool for 30 minutes. Line a 25 cm (10 in) square tin with baking parchment.

4. Preheat the oven to 160 °C (fan)/325 °F/gas mark 3.

5. Add the melted chocolate and butter, along with the remaining Stage 3 ingredients, to the bowl with the batter. Whisk until well combined.

6. Pour the mixture into the lined tin and smooth the top with the back of a spoon to ensure it is evenly distributed.

7. Bake for 30–40 minutes until the top appears dry but has a slight wobble. It’s difficult to overbake these brownies.

8. After removing from the oven, sprinkle with additional sea salt if desired, and leave to cool in the tin.

9. Once cooled, cut into squares to serve. The brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.