Question 1

What is a sourdough starter?

Accepted Answer

A sourdough starter is a mixture of flour and water that captures wild yeast and bacteria from the environment, used to leaven bread.

Question 2

How do I make a sourdough starter?

Accepted Answer

Combine equal parts flour and water, then feed it regularly until it becomes active and bubbly.

Question 3

What kind of flour should I use to feed my sourdough starter?

Accepted Answer

Unbleached all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour are commonly used for feeding sourdough starters.

Question 4

Can I use tap water to feed my sourdough starter?

Accepted Answer

It’s best to use filtered or bottled water, as chlorine in tap water can inhibit fermentation.

Question 5

How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?

Accepted Answer

Look for bubbles, a slightly sour smell, and an increase in volume after feeding.

Question 6

Can I refrigerate my sourdough starter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can refrigerate your sourdough starter to slow down fermentation if you’re not baking regularly.

Question 7

How do I revive a refrigerated sourdough starter?

Accepted Answer

Take it out of the fridge, let it come to room temperature, then feed it as usual until it becomes active again.

Question 8

Why does my sourdough starter smell bad?

Accepted Answer

A strong, unpleasant odor may indicate that your starter needs to be fed or that it has been contaminated with unwanted bacteria.

Question 9

How do I know if my sourdough starter is ready to use in a recipe?

Accepted Answer

Use the float test: drop a small amount of starter into water; if it floats, it’s ready to use.

Question 10

Can I use my sourdough starter in recipes other than bread?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sourdough starter can be used in pancakes, waffles, muffins, and more for added flavor and leavening.

Question 11

How long does it take to create a sourdough starter from scratch?

Accepted Answer

It typically takes 5-7 days to create a sourdough starter from scratch, depending on environmental conditions.

Question 12

Can I share my sourdough starter with others?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can share your sourdough starter with friends and family by giving them a portion of your active starter.

Question 13

What should I do if my sourdough starter separates?

Accepted Answer

Stir it well and continue feeding as usual; separation is normal and doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem.

Question 14

How can I troubleshoot a sourdough starter that’s not rising?

Accepted Answer

Ensure you’re feeding it regularly, using the correct flour and water ratios, and maintaining an appropriate temperature.

Question 15

Why is my sourdough starter not bubbling?

Accepted Answer

A lack of bubbles may indicate that your starter needs more frequent feeding, warmer temperatures, or that it’s too acidic.

Question 16

Can I use metal utensils or containers with my sourdough starter?

Accepted Answer

It’s best to avoid prolonged contact with metal as it can react with the acidic nature of the starter, use glass or plastic instead.

Question 17

What should I do if my sourdough starter becomes too sour?

Accepted Answer

Try adjusting the feeding schedule to make it less acidic, or consider using it in recipes that benefit from a tangy flavor, like sourdough pancakes or crackers.

Question 18

How long can I keep my sourdough starter without feeding it?

Accepted Answer

It’s best to feed your sourdough starter regularly, but it can typically go a few days without feeding if refrigerated, though its activity may decrease.

Sourdough Workshop Just Kneed It

Follow this organizer to stay informed on future events

IAW Las Vegas: The Just One Project

The Dive Bar Open Mic - Just F'in Comedy, every Sunday at The Dive Bar!

Mayday! The Justus Tour - Live in Las Vegas

Messer Chups, Shanda & the Howlers, Cherry & the Sours @ The Dive Bar LV

1111 Portal Sound Bath w/ Reiki - Morning Event

Breathe Into Expansion: Breathwork + Sound Bath

Heart - Opening Breathwork & Soundbath

Soulful Saturday

Sourdough Workshop Just Kneed It

Follow this organizer to stay informed on future events

Events you might like

IAW Las Vegas: The Just One ProjectIAW Las Vegas: The Just One Project

The Dive Bar Open Mic - Just F'in Comedy, every Sunday at The Dive Bar!The Dive Bar Open Mic - Just F'in Comedy, every Sunday at The Dive Bar!

Mayday! The Justus Tour - Live in Las VegasMayday! The Justus Tour - Live in Las Vegas

Messer Chups, Shanda & the Howlers, Cherry & the Sours @ The Dive Bar LVMesser Chups, Shanda & the Howlers, Cherry & the Sours @ The Dive Bar LV

1111 Portal Sound Bath w/ Reiki - Morning Event1111 Portal Sound Bath w/ Reiki - Morning Event

Breathe Into Expansion: Breathwork + Sound BathBreathe Into Expansion: Breathwork + Sound Bath

Heart - Opening Breathwork & SoundbathHeart - Opening Breathwork & Soundbath

Soulful SaturdaySoulful Saturday