My second attempt with the Yeaster Bunn created a reasonably good loaf, given all the mistakes I made. This time I forgot to cover the top during the rise and while it doubled in size (yay), the top got a bit dried out preventing it from growing, and even when splitting the top to allow for some oven spring, it only rose a bit. But – that is progress! It was tasty and I got two loaves of pretty good sandwiches from this week’s attempt.

If you don’t know what a sourdough starter is or how to use it – I like this process because it is slow. You can’t rush the natural yeast and fermentation, and I think the bread (even when not perfect) is tastier and more filling than the quicker rise of commercial yeast.  I love that the bread can be as simple as just water and flour on the ingredients list. I have only found one bakery that produces a loaf that is nearly as good as homemade – but that is hard for me to get and requires bridges, tunnels and tolls.

I could list a hundred different websites that tell you a bunch of variations on the process, but this link is a good overview with photos that are helpful.

The entire sourdough process is slow, patient and generally pretty forgiving, which is why I love to keep trying. Even when the results are not photo worthy, the steps are pleasant, relaxing and enjoyable. The skill of owning and baking with a sourdough starter is often referred to as both an art and a science.

I have tried the ‘science’ way of doing everything on a schedule and by measured amounts and I grew frustrated as my pet grew limp – so determined to try again, I am going with the ‘art’ approach this time.  I eyeball and play with it – and pretend I am baking back in the day before nutrition labels and measure cups. So far the Yeaster Bunn and I are much happier finding our way together with the occasional web search or book reference.

Two of my favorite books that I reference are:

King Arthur Whole Grain Baking – a great resource for flour and baking

Forgotten Skills of Cooking – probably available used, but that is the best because you benefit from the notes of the previous owner!