Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
How to Strengthen Your Sourdough Starter for Better Bread

How to Strengthen Your Sourdough Starter for Better Bread


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 4-6 hours (active fermentation)
  • Yield: Makes enough for multiple feedings before use in baking
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A strong and active sourdough starter is the key to baking beautiful, airy, and flavorful bread. However, many bakers struggle with starters that become too acidic, weak, or fail to give a good rise to their loaves. If you’ve been feeding your starter a traditional 1:1:1 ratio but are still facing issues, it’s time to try a different approach!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 40g mature sourdough starter
  • 120g all-purpose or bread flour

 

  • 80g water (adjust slightly for consistency)

Instructions

  • Take Out Starter: Remove your starter from the fridge and let it come to room temperature.
  • Measure Ingredients: Use the 1:3:2 ratio (e.g., 40g starter, 120g flour, 80g water) for best results.
  • Mix: Stir well until you get a super thick paste-like consistency. It should not be runny.
  • Store: Place in a clean jar and cover loosely to allow gas to escape.
  • Ferment: Let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before refrigerating.

 

  • Feed Every 4-5 Days: Refresh using the same ratio when needed.

Notes

  • This feeding method reduces acidity and enhances yeast activity, leading to better bread rise.
  • The starter can be stored in the fridge and fed every 4-5 days, reducing the need for daily maintenance.
  • Use unbleached flour and filtered water for the best results.
  • If your starter smells too sour, it may need more frequent feeding at room temperature for a couple of days before returning to the fridge.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: Not applicable
  • Category: Sourdough Starter Maintenance
  • Method: Fermentation
  • Cuisine: Baking / Bread

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 50g of starter
  • Calories: 90 kcal
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 1mg
  • Fat: 0.3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg