Learn how to create your own sourdough starter from scratch. This homemade sourdough starter recipe is easy to follow and will result in a flavorful and active starter that you can use in a variety of sourdough recipes. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you'll have a bubbling and tangy sourdough starter in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup filtered water
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
Directions
- In a clean glass jar or container, combine the all-purpose flour, filtered water, and whole wheat flour.
- Stir the mixture until well combined and there are no dry lumps of flour.
- Cover the jar with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Secure it with a rubber band or lid that is loosely tightened to allow airflow.
- Store the jar in a warm location, around 70°F (21°C).
- After 24 hours, you may see some bubbles or activity in the starter. Stir the mixture well and discard half of the starter.
- Add another 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup of filtered water to the jar. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the jar again and let it sit for another 24 hours.
- Repeat the process of discarding half of the starter and feeding it with 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup of filtered water every 24 hours until the starter becomes active.
- You will notice more vigorous bubbling and fermentation activity after 5-7 days. The starter will have a tangy aroma and should double in size within a few hours after feeding.
- Once the sourdough starter is active, it is ready to be used in sourdough bread recipes or stored in the refrigerator.
Interesting Facts
Sourdough starters are made by capturing wild yeast and bacteria from the environment.
The fermentation process in sourdough starters creates lactic acid, which gives sourdough bread its characteristic tangy flavor.
Sourdough starters can be maintained and used for years, with some starters being passed down through generations.