Sourdough starter is the foundation of delicious sourdough bread. It is a mixture of flour and water that captures wild yeast and bacteria from the environment to create a natural leavening agent. Making your own sourdough starter is a simple process that requires patience and care. Follow the steps below to create your own sourdough starter from scratch.
Contents
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 2 1/2 cups lukewarm water
Instructions:
Day 1: Mixing the Starter
- Combine Flours: In a large glass or plastic container, mix together the all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour.
- Add Water: Gradually stir in the lukewarm water to form a thick batter.
- Cover: Cover the container loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Day 2: Feeding the Starter
- Stir: Stir the starter mixture well. It may start to show some bubbles, which is a sign of fermentation.
- Feed: Discard half of the starter (about 1 cup) and add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of lukewarm water. Mix well.
- Cover: Cover the container and let it rest at room temperature.
Day 3-7: Daily Feedings
- Repeat: Repeat the feeding process from Day 2 once a day for the next 5 days.
- Watch for Activity: The starter should start to show more signs of activity like bubbles, a tangy smell, and maybe even some rise.
Day 8: Ready to Use
- Testing Readiness: To test if the starter is ready to use, drop a spoonful of it into a bowl of water. If it floats, it’s ready.
- Storage: You can now use the starter to bake sourdough bread. Store any unused starter in the refrigerator, feeding it weekly.
Creating a sourdough starter is a rewarding process that allows you to harness the natural fermentation power of wild yeast and bacteria. With proper care and feeding, your sourdough starter can last for years, producing flavorful breads that are unique to your own kitchen.
