How To Make Sourdough Starter From Scratch

How to Make Sourdough Starter From Scratch

Are you ready to dive into the wonderful world of sourdough bread? One essential step in creating that tangy and delicious loaf is making your own sourdough starter from scratch. Don’t worry – it’s easier than you think! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating your own sourdough starter at home.

What is Sourdough Starter?

Sourdough starter is a mixture of water and flour that captures wild yeast and lactobacilli, creating the foundation for your sourdough bread. This living organism is what gives sourdough its distinctive flavor and texture. Making your own starter means you have control over the fermentation process and can personalize it according to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• Organic or high-quality bread flour
• Purified or filtered water

Step 1: Day 1

1. Mix together 50 grams of flour and 50 grams of water in a glass jar or a non-reactive container.
2. Stir well until there are no dry flour pockets and the mixture has a pancake batter-like consistency.
3. Cover the jar loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
4. Let the mixture sit at room temperature, around 70°F (21°C), for 24 hours.

Step 2: Day 2

1. After 24 hours, you may or may not see any activity in the starter. Don’t worry if it looks the same – the fermentation process may take a little longer.
2. Discard half of the starter (approximately 50 grams).
3. Add 50 grams of flour and 50 grams of water to the remaining starter.
4. Stir well and cover the jar again.
5. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for another 24 hours.

Step 3: Day 3 and Beyond

1. Repeat Step 2 every 24 hours, discarding half of the starter and feeding it with equal amounts of flour and water.
2. Observe your starter for signs of activity, such as bubbles on the surface and a slightly sour smell.
3. Each day, you should see more vigorous fermentation, a sign that your starter is developing properly.

Caring for Your Sourdough Starter

To keep your sourdough starter healthy and active, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Store your starter in a clean glass jar with a loose lid to allow gases to escape.
• Keep the starter at room temperature, ideally between 70°F (21°C) and 85°F (29°C).
• Feed your starter daily by discarding half of it and refreshing it with equal amounts of flour and water.
• If you’re not planning to bake daily, you can store the starter in the refrigerator and feed it once a week.

Using Your Sourdough Starter

Once your sourdough starter is active and bubbling, it’s time to put it to use! You can use it to make a wide range of delicious sourdough bread, pancakes, waffles, and more. Get creative and experiment with different recipes to find your perfect sourdough creations.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully made your own sourdough starter from scratch. As you continue your sourdough journey, you’ll develop a deep understanding and appreciation for the art of breadmaking. Enjoy the process and happy baking!