How to keep sourdough fresh

Linen, not plastic. Cut side down. And what to do with the last few slices.

Ines Paulsen

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August 28, 2026

How to keep sourdough fresh

A well-fermented loaf keeps far longer than yeasted bread, but how you store it still matters.

Day one and two

Keep the loaf in a linen or cotton bag, or simply cut side down on a wooden board. Plastic traps moisture and softens the crust.

Day three onward

Toast it. Older sourdough makes the best toast, and it is ideal for French toast, panzanella and breadcrumbs.

Freezing

Slice the loaf first, freeze in a bag, and toast straight from frozen. It will taste as if it was baked this morning.

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