In this recipe from Daniel Leader of Bread Alone, an airy loaf with a nice crust is produced similar to a ciabatta. It’s made with a lightly fermented traditional Italian starter, called a biga, that’s started nine hours before baking.

Traditional baguettes are 24 to 30 inches long and are baked in ovens that produce steam, which delays crust formation so the loaves can fully rise.

Dark and deeply flavored from a rye sourdough starter that’s made 10 days in advance, the earthy loaf is easily customizable depending on what seeds and grains you have on hand and want to add to the dough.

Made 10 days in advance with a hearty whole spelt flour starter, this loaf has rich caramel undertones and a pleasant sourness. Top slices with creamy, funky cheeses and cured or smoked meats and fish.

Apple Cider Levain Loaf