The Art of Sourdough

Sourdough bread represents the pinnacle of artisan baking, combining ancient techniques with modern understanding of fermentation. The tangy flavor, chewy texture, and beautiful crust make it worth the time investment.

Creating Your Starter

Begin with equal parts flour and water, feeding daily until your starter becomes active and bubbly. This process typically takes 5-7 days and creates the natural yeast that will leaven your bread.

Understanding Fermentation

Sourdough's unique flavor comes from lactic acid bacteria that develop during fermentation. Temperature control is crucial - cooler temperatures create more sour flavors, while warmer temperatures produce milder results.

Shaping and Scoring Techniques

Proper shaping creates surface tension that helps the bread rise in the oven. Scoring with a sharp blade allows controlled expansion and creates the beautiful patterns that make sourdough instantly recognizable.