What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of filtered water
- A glass jar with a lid
Step 1: Day 1 – Mixing the Initial Ingredients
In a glass jar, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of filtered water. Stir well until there are no dry clumps remaining. The mixture will have a thick pancake batter-like consistency. Cover the jar loosely with a lid or cloth, and let it sit in a warm area for 24 hours.
Step 2: Day 2 – Feeding the Starter
After 24 hours, you should notice some bubbles forming on the surface of the mixture. This indicates that fermentation has started. Now it’s time to feed the starter to keep the fermentation process going.
Discard half of the mixture and add 1/2 cup of flour and 1/4 cup of filtered water to the jar. Stir well to incorporate the fresh ingredients. Cover the jar loosely and let it sit for another 24 hours.
Step 3: Day 3 – Second Feeding
On day 3, you will repeat the feeding process to strengthen your sourdough starter.
Discard half of the mixture again and add 1/2 cup of flour and 1/4 cup of filtered water to the jar. Stir well and cover the jar loosely. Let it sit for 24 hours.
Step 4: Day 4 – Your Starter is Ready!
By day 4, your sourdough starter should be ready to use. It should have a pleasant tangy smell and be bubbly. If your starter is not quite there yet, repeat the feeding process for a few more days until it is active and bubbly.
Once your starter is ready, you can start using it to bake delicious sourdough bread. Remember to feed your starter regularly to keep it alive and active. You can store it in the refrigerator and feed it once a week or leave it at room temperature and feed it daily.
Making your own sourdough starter is not as complicated as it may seem. With a bit of patience and regular feedings, you can create a vibrant sourdough starter that will give your homemade bread a unique flavor. Enjoy the process and happy baking!