Ah, welcome, dear friend, to the art of reviving your cherished dehydrated sourdough starter! Imagine, if you will, that your little starter is like a long-lost traveler, waiting to be awakened from a deep slumber. Follow these steps, and you’ll soon have a lively, bubbling companion ready to bake the most delightful breads and treats.
Ingredients:
15 grams of dehydrated sourdough starter
30 grams/milliliters of non-chlorinated warm water (I use Poland Springs)
30 grams of your choice of unbleached flour – preferably organic
Day 1: The Awakening
Gather Your Supplies:
Find a small, cozy bowl and place your 15 grams of dehydrated sourdough starter inside. This is where the magic begins, so choose a bowl that feels welcoming!
Add Water:
Gently pour 30 milliliters of warm water over the dehydrated starter. Think of this water as the first soft rains of spring, gently coaxing life back into the earth. Stir the mixture gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until the starter is fully dissolved.
Let it Rest:
Cover the bowl loosely with a cloth or plastic wrap, allowing your starter to breathe. Let it sit in a warm, cozy spot in your kitchen for about 3-4 hours. This is just the beginning, so be patient, and trust in the process.
Day 1 Evening: The First Feeding
Feeding Time:
Now that your starter is awake, it’s time for its first meal. Add 30 grams of all-purpose flour and another 30 milliliters of warm water to the bowl. Stir it lovingly until it’s well combined.
Rest Again:
Cover the bowl once more, and let it rest overnight in its warm spot. This is when the real magic starts to happen, as your starter begins to show signs of life.
Day 2: Building Strength
Morning Check-In:
By now, you should see some bubbles forming, a sure sign that your starter is coming to life. Give it another feeding: add 30 grams of flour and 30 milliliters of water, stirring well.
Continue Feeding:
Repeat this process every 12 hours. Each feeding should be equal parts flour and water. Your starter will grow stronger with each meal, much like a warrior preparing for a grand quest.
Day 3-4: Fully Awakened
Watch for Activity:
After a few days, your starter should be bubbly, lively, and ready for action. You’ll know it’s fully awake when it doubles in size within 4-6 hours of a feeding.
Ready for Baking:
Now, your sourdough starter is ready to be used in your favorite recipes. It’s time to bake some beautiful, crusty bread and share the joy with friends and family.
Remember, rehydrating your sourdough starter is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Enjoy each step, and may your kitchen be filled with the warmth and cheer of freshly baked bread. Sláinte!