The Simple Crust Sourdough Kit
- Cloche Dutch Oven, Banneton, Monkey Lame & Natural Fibre Cleaning Brush
Your Essential Sourdough Journey Starts Here
Designed for simplicity and success, our Essential Sourdough Kit contains the core tools we’ve relied on for years in our own kitchen. This set eliminates the guesswork by providing a perfectly matched Dutch oven and banneton, ensuring your loaves have the support they need to rise high and crust beautifully. Check out some of our finished loaves in the photos!
What’s Included in the Essential Kit:
Cloche Enamel Dutch Oven: The "engine" of your bake. It traps steam perfectly for that professional artisanal crust.
Matching Round Rattan Banneton: Sized to fit the pot exactly, preventing your dough from spreading and forcing a better oven spring.
Signature Monkey Lame: Our favorite tool for safe, precise scoring and beautiful "ear" development.
Natural Fibre Cleaning Brush [NEW]: The missing piece of the puzzle. Easily clear flour from your rattan grooves and clean your tools without damaging them.
Bench & Dough Scrapers: For effortless shaping and clean-up.
In the box:
1 x Enamel-Coated Cast Iron Dutch Oven
1 x Round Rattan Proofing Basket
1 x Monkey Lame with safety cover & 5 blades
1 x Plastic Dough Shaper
1 x Stainless Steel Scraper with wooden handle
1 x Linen Liner / Cloth Cover
1 x Natural Fibre Cleaning Brush
(Prefer oval or round instead of cloche? - click oval or round to find these options)
Proofing Basket Details:
Round Bowl Measures: 90mm Tall and 230mm Wide
Natural rattan – smooth and splinter-free
Wicks away moisture for a crisp crust
Easy to use and clean
Cloche Enamel Dutch Oven Details:
- Type: Bread Cloche (Bell-style)
- Material: Enamel-Coated Cast Iron
- Design: Shallow Base + High-Volume Dome Lid
- Max Temp: 260°C (500°F)
- Benefit: Low-profile base prevents burns and preserves dough tension
Dimensions:
- Base Diameter: 26cm
- Base Height: ~2cm to 3cm (shallow profile)
- Dome Height: ~13cm to 14cm (not including the knob)
- Total Height: ~16cm to 17cm (including the stainless steel knob)
* allow some margin for error; these were done by hand.
We make sourdough starters simple: At the link below, you'll find clear, step-by-step instructions for creating your own sourdough starter using just flour, water, and the natural yeast in the air. Whether you're a first-time baker or already hooked, we'll help you bake fresh, crusty sourdough at home with confidence. Learn how to start your starter here →
Note: Want an oval proofing basket instead of a round one? Just ask via the Q&A or leave a note at checkout — we’re happy to swap it if available.
FAQ: The "Essential" Details
Why is this called the "simple" or essential kit?
We’ve stripped away the fluff and kept the tools that actually impact the quality of your bread. A matching pot and proofing basket are the two biggest factors in moving from "flat bread" to "professional loaves."
How do I use the new cleaning brush?
Rattan is a natural material that likes to stay dry. Use the stiff natural bristles to flick out dried dough or excess flour from your banneton after use. It’s also perfect for cleaning your scrapers and the fine edges of your Monkey Lame.
Does this kit come with instructions?
Yes! We include a "Quick Start" guide to help you care for your cast iron and rattan so your Essential Kit lasts a lifetime.
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See it in action:
We recommend this simple how-to video for using your kit:
👉 Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdQqaTN5Sc0
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Whether it’s your first loaf or your fiftieth, The Simple Crust makes it easy to get beautiful, consistent results.
Let us know if you have any questions — we're always happy to help you on your sourdough journey.

