DOWNLOAD & PRINT my Sourdough Info Packet HERE.
This is an updated handout from a sourdough class I taught some church friends. It includes FAQ’s, starter care, my favorite recipes, troubleshooting, and SO much more.
Sourdough has great health benefits due to its fermentation methods and because it is natural yeast. Fermentation pre-digests the gluten in the flour making it more digestible. We’re preparing grains the way they were intended to be prepared without taking shortcuts for quicker production. Sourdough is becoming a “re-found” lost art.
Allow me to tell you a story of what sourdough means to me. I live in a very diversified area. We have many cultures, ages, languages, and lifestyle backgrounds living in the same area. We had new neighbors move in and I wanted to welcome them to the neighborhood, but a language barrier left all of us feeling defeated and a bit isolated. The thought came to me, “Just give them some bread.” So I did! I saw them outside and I quickly grabbed a loaf I had been storing for them. I don’t know all the words they said except “Thank you!” in broken English, but the light in their faces and joy I could see radiating from them was enough. The following week we were greeted with a most delicious gift of food from their culture. Food had broken our barrier! We now wave and try to communicate as best we can while our children play. A sourdough loaf gave us a gift of friendship, and for that I am forever grateful.
There have been many stories just like this in my sourdough journey. Enough to know you are embarking on a journey of light, love, and friendship (yep, you’ll have lots of friends with these loaves coming out of your kitchen!).
As far as GETTING STARTED goes, I recommend simply feeding your starter. Get used to it. Feel confident and comfortable feeding it every day and discarding excess into the fridge. When you have enough, try out a discard recipe. Some of my favorites are at the end of this handout (overnight pancakes & waffles, and a giant cinnamon roll). When you have all the signs of a healthy starter (listed in the FAQ’s and TIPS section) go ahead and try the loaves. Just DO IT! Going through the process over and over again is the best way to learn. Try scoring fun designs into the bread if you’re feeling artistic. Oh, and you definitely have to try grilled cheese with the classic loaves – they’re incredible. Once you feel comfortable with the loaves, try some mix-in’s. Some of my favorites are listed at the end of the classic sourdough recipe (Cheddar Jalapeno toasted, then topped with cream cheese is my all-time favorite!) I’d love to hear about and see your creations @MommaBearsTreehouse on Instagram!
You’re about to invest in yourself as you gain knowledge in the world of sourdough, and ultimately invest in your family and friends. The journey of learning sourdough is never-ending, so give yourself grace for where you are on your journey and enjoy the process. It’s just food that will be eaten, so it’s ok to take risks and make a less-than-perfect loaf. On the other hand, a gorgeous loaf is incredibly gratifying. Remember to share the love and gift some loaves along the way; you won’t regret it. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey!
Love you my friend! – Jenny
HERE is my SOURDOUGH PRINTABLE to add to your recipe book.
This is the updated handout I used for teaching a sourdough class. It includes so many notes, frequently asked questions, starter care information, favorite recipes, troubleshooting, and so much more!
Momma Bear's Treehouse 