sourdough

As a native San Franciscan, I can't get enough sourdough bread. While this isn't the only city where you can get a great loaf, it sure perfected the art before artisan bread hit the mainstream. So it was just a matter of time before I took a stab at a homemade version inspired by the town I call home.

Every region's sourdough gets its unique flavor from the yeast organisms in the starter. Therefore, my loaf has a different character than one baked in, say, South Florida. But wherever you are, you can expect that delicious tartness that gives the bread its name. For this attempt, I added some wheat flour to give it some nutty depth, but you can easily use all bread flour, too.

So roll up your sleeves and get ready for a kneading workout! For the recipe, just keep reading.

San Francisco's Tartine Bakery is wildly popular, not only for its loaves and croissants, but also for its recently published cookbook, Tartine Bread, which has only been out for half a year but already has a cult following of amateur bread obsessives that The Wall Street Journal examines in a recent article.

I'm too timid to try fostering sourdough starters, but there have definitely been times when I've doled out upwards of $7 for Tartine's legendary loaf — which, although huge, is easy enough to devour within minutes. Katie feels the same way: it's a steep price to pay, worthy for certain special occasions.

How much money are you willing to spend — and how far and wide are you wiling to go — for that impeccable loaf?

Source: Flickr User kowitz

Since you've crowned Trader Joe's your favorite grocery store three years in a row, I've decided I'm long overdue to share something with you: my top TJ's product, and the definitive recipe to go with it.

I've always loved the half-healthy, half-indulgent quality of the chain's Cilantro & Chive Yogurt Dip. It's wonderful spooned atop silvers of smoked salmon and thick-cut chips, blended with buttermilk for a unique dressing, or as a dip for carrots and celery. But I can't take credit for the hands-down best way to enjoy this: in a sourdough bread and roast beef sandwich. That brilliant idea goes to my best friend, who came up with this simple yet amazing combo when she didn't have any condiments in her refrigerator.

This sandwich, which contains items that can be found at all Trader Joe's stores, may not sound like anything special, but make no mistake — it's amazing. I've had it for lunch every day this week. Want the recipe? Then read more.