wild sourdough starter

Meet BeBe [pronounced bay-bay - like "this is out little baybay"]

I was unsure about taking on a wild sourdough starter.

I wasn't sure I could handle the responsibility.  It sounded like a lot of work.

What if I killed it?  I don't think I could have handled the loss.

After adopting BeBe, I quickly realized something: it is really flipping hard to kill a starter.

And they are fun to take care of.  More fun than taking care of a chia pet even.

I love BeBe.  He's easy to please.  He doesn't cry for his mother.  Only eats a few tablespoons of flour and water once a week.  And he produces results.  See exhibit A.

And when I need a break from caring for him?  I just put him in the fridge and he goes to sleep.  Like a little baby - our little BeBe.

Adopt your own BeBe from a friend or start your own.  It will be sure to return the love you give it in loaves.

wild sourdough starter

organic, stone ground flour
spring water
large mason jar w/ lid
towel

Using a wooden spoon, stir 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup water in your mason jar until completely combined.  Cover loosely with a towel and allow to set for 24 hours.

Add 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup water to the jar and stir again until well combined.  Cover and allow to sit for 24 hours more.

After two days, your starter should have bubbles forming on the top and should smell fermented, like alcohol.  Stir in any yellowish liquid that may have formed on the top and add another 1/2 cup of flour and water.  Stir well, cover and let sit 24 hours more.

After three days, your starter should be much more bubbly and ready to use.  If you notice that it smells weird or mold or dark gray liquid forms on the top, toss it and start over.  Fermentation is a delicate process and sometimes goes awry. 

If you don't use your starter right away, you can cover it and store it in the fridge.  Make sure to feed it equal parts flour and water once per week. 

When you are ready to use it, take it out of the fridge, remove 1 cup of the starter and either put it up for adoption [share with a friend] or discard.  Feed your remaining starter equal parts flour and water and let it sit overnight to fully awaken before adding it to your favorite sourdough recipe.