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Sourdough Starter

A living culture made from flour and water that develops into a tangy, bubbly starter for artisan sourdough bread.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 1 batch
Course: Bread
Cuisine: Artisan
Calories: 50

Ingredients
  

Starter
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup water filtered or bottled, room temperature

Equipment

  • Glass or plastic container (at least 1 quart)
  • Kitchen scale (optional but recommended)
  • Spoon or spatula for mixing
  • Clean kitchen towel or coffee filter
  • Rubber band or string

Method
 

  1. In a clean container, mix together 1 cup whole wheat flour and 1 cup water until no dry bits remain.
  2. Stir the mixture thoroughly, then cover the container loosely with a clean towel or coffee filter secured with a rubber band or string to allow airflow.
  3. Place the container in a warm spot (70°F to 75°F) and let it sit undisturbed for 24 hours at room temperature.
  4. After 24 hours, discard half of the starter and add 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1 cup water, stirring until combined.
  5. Repeat the feeding process every 24 hours by discarding half of the starter and adding 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1 cup water each time, for 5 to 7 days.
  6. After about one week, check for activity; the starter should be bubbly and double in size within a few hours of feeding.
  7. Test if the starter is ready for baking by dropping a spoonful into a glass of water; if it floats, it is ready.
  8. Store unused starter in the refrigerator and feed it once a week to maintain its activity.

Notes

Always use a kitchen scale for precise measurements and maintain consistent feeding schedules.