Forktionary

Sourdough Starter

Saccharomyces cerevisiae & Lactobacillus spp. Baking, Fermentation

Sourdough Starter Baking, Fermentation

At a Glance

  • Category Baking, Fermentation

The Forktionary Angle

"Demystifying the heart of artisan baking, from creation to maintenance."

Definition

A live fermented culture of flour and water, containing wild yeasts and bacteria, used as a leavening agent for sourdough bread.

Average Lifespan Indefinite (with proper care)
Optimal Feeding Ratio 1:1:1 (Starter:Water:Flour)
Typical Fermentation Time 4-12 hours (at room temp)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Sourdough Starter are:

Tangy Yeasty Complex

Chef’s Secret

Store a small portion of unfed starter in the fridge for long-term backup. You can revive it with a few feedings. Also, use discarded unfed starter for crackers or pancakes!

Best Substitutes

Active Dry Yeast

1 tsp yeast per cup flour, adjust hydration

Baking Powder

not ideal for texture

Poolish

pre-ferment

Buying Guide

Often shared by bakers or can be purchased dehydrated. Look for active, bubbly starters if buying fresh.

Culinary Pairings

Flour Water Salt Time

Recipes Using Sourdough Starter

Alaskan Sourdough Blueberry Gingerbread image 110
Occasion Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Cakes

Alaskan Sourdough Blueberry Gingerbread

Warm up your kitchen with this irresistible Alaskan Sourdough Blueberry Gingerbread! Inspired by julesong's recipe #7020, this twist features the bright burst of fresh Alaskan blueberries, creating a unique and unforgettable gingerbread experience. Get ready for a comforting treat with the perfect balance of tangy sourdough, spicy ginger, and juicy blueberries. Perfect for a cozy evening or festive gathering!

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Basic But Beautiful Sourdough Bread image
Number Of Servings Pasta Rice And Grains Vegan North American

Basic But Beautiful Sourdough Bread

Bake a stunning, light sourdough loaf in just 8-inch round pans! This easy recipe is perfect for sourdough beginners. Achieve bakery-quality results with minimal effort. Learn the basics and enjoy a delicious, rustic-looking bread. Prep time includes rising, which varies depending on your starter's activity (mine's speedy!). Get ready for compliments!

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Bakery Style Sourdough Bread image
Cuisine Breads Time To Make Course

Bakery Style Sourdough Bread

Unlock the secrets of ancient Egyptian baking with this incredible, step-by-step sourdough bread recipe, adapted from Cook's Illustrated! This recipe delivers amazing flavor and texture, but requires some advance planning. A healthy, refreshed sourdough starter is key (see note below for refreshing instructions). Master the art of sourdough and impress your friends and family with a loaf worthy of a bakery. Even short on time? A slightly altered step is optional for a quicker bake.

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Alaskan Sourdough Cornbread image
Quick Breads Breads Time To Make Oven

Alaskan Sourdough Cornbread

Experience the taste of Alaska with this unique sourdough cornbread recipe! Inspired by our Alaskan adventure and a recipe from Alaska Travel Magazine, this cornbread boasts a delightful, mild sourdough tang that elevates the classic cornbread experience. Unlike traditional cornbread, this recipe incorporates a sourdough starter for a depth of flavor your family will adore. Perfectly golden-brown and moist, it's the ideal side dish for any meal. This updated recipe includes precise baking time adjustments for optimal results.

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