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Minor punctuation, grammatical fixes to Starter Types and Flour Types (#64)
* Minor punctuation, grammatical fixes to Sourdough Starter Types and Flour Types * Sourdough Starter Types minor fixes
This commit is contained in:
@@ -1,13 +1,13 @@
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In this chapter we will have a closer look at different flour types
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In this chapter we will have a closer look at different flour types
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and their respective categorization. We will also look a common
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and their respective categorization. We will also look at common
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ways to distinguish different flours of the same type. This way you can more confidently
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ways to distinguish different flours of the same type. This way you can more confidently
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shop the right flour that you need.
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purchase the flour that you need.
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The most basic flour type is a whole flour. In this case the whole seed has
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The most basic flour type is a whole grain flour. In this case the whole seed has
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been ground to smaller pieces. Sometimes depending on what you want to bake
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been ground to smaller pieces. Sometimes, depending on what you want to bake,
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the hearty taste of the bran might not be desired. In this case you can use
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the hearty taste of the bran might not be desired. In this case you can use
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whiter flours. With sieves, mills remove larger parts of the hull of the seed.
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whiter flours. With sieves, mills remove larger parts of the hull of the seed.
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The seed already contains a pre built germ from the plant waiting to be
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The seed already contains a pre-built germ from the plant waiting to be
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activated. The whitest flour you can get is mostly just the starch part of the seed.
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activated. The whitest flour you can get is mostly just the starch part of the seed.
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Depending on which layers are still present, names are used to describe the
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Depending on which layers are still present, names are used to describe the
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type of flour.
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type of flour.
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@@ -18,13 +18,13 @@ type of flour.
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\caption{A comparison of the different wheat flour types}
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\caption{A comparison of the different wheat flour types}
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\end{figure}
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\end{figure}
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In Germany the ash content is used to describe the flours. The lab will burn
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In Germany, the ash content is used to describe the flours. The lab will burn
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100 grams of flour in the oven. Then afterwards the remaining ash is extracted
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100 grams of flour in the oven. Then afterwards the remaining ash is extracted
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and measured. Depending on the quantity the flour is categorized. If the flour
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and measured. Depending on the quantity the flour is categorized. If the flour
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is of type 405 then 405 milligrams of ash have remained after burning the
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is of type 405 then 405 milligrams of ash have remained after burning the
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flour. The more hull parts the flour has the more minerals remain. So the
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flour. The more hull parts the flour has, the more minerals remain. So the
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higher the number the closer the flour is to whole flour. The numbers are
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higher the number, the closer the flour is to whole flour. The numbers are
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slightly different between each grain type. Generally though the higher the
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slightly different between each grain type. Generally though, the higher the
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value, the heartier the taste is going to be.
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value, the heartier the taste is going to be.
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\begin{figure}[htb!]
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\begin{figure}[htb!]
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@@ -33,17 +33,17 @@ value, the heartier the taste is going to be.
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\label{fig:wheat-kernel-overview}
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\label{fig:wheat-kernel-overview}
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\end{figure}
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\end{figure}
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If you compare different grain types there are grains with high gluten, low gluten
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If you compare different grain types, there are grains with high gluten, low gluten
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and no gluten. Gluten is what enables bread to have its fluffy consistency.
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and no gluten. Gluten is what enables bread to have its fluffy consistency.
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Without gluten the baked goods wouldn't have the same properties. Managing
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Without gluten the baked goods wouldn't have the same properties. Managing
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gluten makes the whole bread making process more complex as more steps are involved.
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gluten makes the whole bread-making process more complex as more steps are involved.
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A dough without gluten doesn't have to be kneaded. Kneading creates
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A dough without gluten doesn't have to be kneaded. Kneading creates
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the gluten bonds. The more you knead the stronger they become. With low
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the gluten bonds. The more you knead, the stronger they become. With low-gluten
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gluten and no gluten flours you only have to mix the ingredients together, making
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and no-gluten flours, you only have to mix the ingredients together, making
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sure you properly homogenize everything. During the duration of the fermentation
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sure you properly homogenize everything. During the duration of the fermentation,
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the gluten degrades as the microorganisms metabolize it. When too much gluten
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the gluten degrades as the microorganisms metabolize it. When too much gluten
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has been converted your dough will no longer have the previously wheat-like described
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has been converted, your dough will no longer have the previously wheat-like described
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structure. For no/low gluten flour your main focus is managing acidity. You do not
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structure. For no/low gluten flour, your main focus is managing acidity. You do not
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want the final bread to be too sour. You do not have to worry about the gluten
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want the final bread to be too sour. You do not have to worry about the gluten
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degradation, removing a huge headache from the equation.
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degradation, removing a huge headache from the equation.
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@@ -54,27 +54,27 @@ degradation, removing a huge headache from the equation.
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As gluten has a special role, the rest of this chapter is dedicated to having a
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As gluten has a special role, the rest of this chapter is dedicated to having a
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closer look at different gluten flours and how to distinguish them. Spelt
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closer look at different gluten flours and how to distinguish them. Spelt
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also contains significant amounts of gluten so the same characteristics hold
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also contains significant amounts of gluten, so the same characteristics hold
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true.
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true.
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Several recipes call for wheat bread flour. Bread flour can refer to different types
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Several recipes call for wheat bread flour. Bread flour can refer to different types
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of flour. It could be a T405 or a T550 in Germany. This is very often
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of flour. It could be a T405 or a T550 in Germany. This is very often
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wrongfully classified. The term \textit{strong or bread} flour in this case
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wrongfully classified. The term \textit{strong} or \textit{bread} flour in this case
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refers to the properties of the flour. A bread flour is considered to have a
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refers to the properties of the flour. A bread flour is considered to have a
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higher number of protein and thus gluten. This flour is excellent when you
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higher amount of protein and thus gluten. This flour is excellent when you
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want to make a sourdough bread as your dough allows for a longer leavening
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want to make a sourdough bread as your dough allows for a longer leavening
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period. As described earlier, the gluten is consumed by your microorganisms.
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period. As described earlier, the gluten is consumed by your microorganisms.
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The more gluten you have the longer your dough keeps its integrity. If you wanted
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The more gluten you have, the longer your dough keeps its integrity. If you wanted
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to make a cake you might want to use a flour with less gluten. The gluten binding
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to make a cake, you might want to use a flour with less gluten. The gluten binding
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properties might not be desirable since the final cake could have a chewy texture.
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properties might not be desirable since the final cake could have a chewy texture.
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In conclusion not every T405, T45 or T00 flour is the same. Depending on the properties
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In conclusion, not every T405, T45 or T00 flour is the same. Depending on the properties
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of plant they have different properties. For that reason some countries like
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of the plant, they have different properties. For that reason, some countries like
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Germany have introduced additional scales to evaluate the quality of the
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Germany have introduced additional scales to evaluate the quality of the
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wheat. The category \textbf{A} refers to good quality wheat that can be blended
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wheat. The category \textbf{A} refers to good quality wheat that can be blended
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with poorer qualities to improve the flour. The category \textbf{B} refers to
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with poorer qualities to improve the flour. The category \textbf{B} refers to
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average wheat that can be used to create different baked goods. Category \textbf{C}
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average wheat that can be used to create different baked goods. Category \textbf{C}
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is used for wheat that has poor baking qualities. This could happen for instance
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is used for wheat that has poor baking qualities. This could happen, for instance,
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if the wheat already started to sprout and thus lost some of its desirable
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if the wheat already started to sprout and thus lost some of its desirable
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baking properties. This type of wheat is typically used as animal feed or
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baking properties. This type of wheat is typically used as animal feed or
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as fermentable biomass for generators. Category \textbf{E} refers to \textit{Elite} wheat. It's
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as fermentable biomass for generators. Category \textbf{E} refers to \textit{Elite} wheat. It's
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@@ -82,17 +82,17 @@ the highest quality of wheat. This kind of wheat can be harvested when the
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wheat has grown under optimal conditions. You can compare this to a winery
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wheat has grown under optimal conditions. You can compare this to a winery
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that uses only the best grapes to make a reserve wine. Unfortunately, this is normally never printed
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that uses only the best grapes to make a reserve wine. Unfortunately, this is normally never printed
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on the packaging of the flour that you buy. You can look out for the protein
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on the packaging of the flour that you buy. You can look out for the protein
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value as a possible indicator. However large mills blend flours together to
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value as a possible indicator. However, large mills blend flours together to
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maintain quality throughout the years. Blended flour is also not listed on
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maintain quality throughout the years. Blended flour is also not listed on
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the packaging. It might be that bakeries extract gluten from some flour and
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the packaging. It might be that bakeries extract gluten from some flour and
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then mix it in order to create better baking flours.
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then mix it in order to create better baking flours.
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In Italy the so called
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In Italy the so-called
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\textbf{W-value} has been introduced to show better how the flour will behave.
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\textbf{W-value} has been introduced to show better how the flour will behave.
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A dough is made and then the resistance of this dough to kneading is measured.
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A dough is made, and then the resistance of this dough to kneading is measured.
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The more gluten a flour has the more elastic the dough is and the more it will
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The more gluten a flour has, the more elastic the dough is, and the more it will
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resist kneading. A higher W flour will have a higher gluten content and allow for a longer
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resist kneading. A higher W flour will have a higher gluten content and allow for a longer
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fermentation period. But at the same time it is also harder for the microbes to
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fermentation period. But at the same time, it is also harder for the microbes to
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inflate the dough as there is more balloon material. To make an excellent fermented
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inflate the dough as there is more balloon material. To make an excellent fermented
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product out of a high W flour you will need to have a long fermentation period.
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product out of a high W flour you will need to have a long fermentation period.
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The long fermentation period also means that your microbes will enrich
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The long fermentation period also means that your microbes will enrich
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@@ -105,28 +105,28 @@ your dough with more flavor.
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\end{figure}
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\end{figure}
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Generally, when aiming to
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Generally, when aiming to
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bake free standing sourdough bread aim for a higher protein content. If the
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bake freestanding sourdough bread, aim for a higher protein content. If the
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gluten value is relatively low your bread will collapse faster. Baking bread
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gluten value is relatively low, your bread will collapse faster. Baking bread
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is still possible, but it might be easier to use tools such as a loaf pan, or
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is still possible, but it might be easier to use tools such as a loaf pan, or
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to make pan or flat breads.
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to make pan or flat breads.
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An additional rarely considered characteristic of good flour is the level of damage to the
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An additional, rarely considered characteristic of good flour is the level of damage to the
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starch molecules. This is a common problem when you are trying to mill your own wheat flours at
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starch molecules. This is a common problem when you are trying to mill your own wheat flours at
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home. Chances are that your home mill is not able to achieve the same results
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home. Chances are that your home mill is not able to achieve the same results
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a larger mill can. The damaging of the starches is essential to improve the
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a larger mill can. The damaging of the starches is essential to improve the
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properties of the dough. You will have a better gelatinization and water
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properties of the dough. You will have a better gelatinization and water
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absorption with properly damaged starch \cite{starch+damage+flour}. As more
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absorption with properly damaged starch \cite{starch+damage+flour}. As more
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starch is damaged the surface area increases. This improves how water connects with the flour.
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starch is damaged, the surface area increases. This improves how water interacts with the flour.
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This also provides a larger surface that your microbes can use to attack the molecules
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This also provides a larger surface that your microbes can use to attack the molecules
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and start the fermentation process.
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and start the fermentation process.
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I am still
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I am still
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yet to find a good way of milling my own flour at home. Even after trying to
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yet to find a good way of milling my own flour at home. Even after trying to
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mill the flour 10 times with short breaks I was not able to achieve the same
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mill the flour 10 times with short breaks, I was not able to achieve the same
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properties as with commercially milled flour. The doughs I would make felt
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properties as with commercially milled flour. The doughs I would make felt
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good, maybe a bit coarse. Then during baking however the doughs would start to
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good, though maybe a bit coarse. Then during baking, however, the doughs would start to
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degas quickly and turn into very flat breads. I have had great success though when
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degas quickly and turn into very flat breads. I have had great success though when
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utilizing home milled flour together with a loaf pan or as a pan bread. If you
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utilizing home-milled flour together with a loaf pan or as a pan bread. If you
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have found great ways to work with home milled flour please reach out. The potential
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have found great ways to work with home-milled flour, please reach out. The potential
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of using home milled flours is huge. It would enable even distant communities
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of using home-milled flours is huge. It would enable even distant communities
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to grow their own wheat and be able to produce amazing freshly baked bread.
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to grow their own wheat and be able to produce amazing freshly baked bread.
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@@ -10,18 +10,18 @@ traits.
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\label{tab:starter-types-comparison}
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\label{tab:starter-types-comparison}
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\end{table}
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\end{table}
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Depending on the flour you have at hand the type of starter changes. With more
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Depending on the flour you have at hand, the type of starter changes. With more
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bacterial activity you have more gluten consumption of your microbes. So if
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bacterial activity you have more gluten consumption of your microbes. So if
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you want to bake a free standing loaf you need a flour with more gluten. The
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you want to bake a free standing loaf, you need a flour with more gluten. The
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more gluten you have the more of it can be broken down whilst still maintaining
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more gluten you have, the more of it can be broken down whilst still maintaining
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dough integrity. If you live in a country where the climate to grow wheat
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dough integrity. If you live in a country where the climate to grow wheat
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isn't ideal and you only have weaker flours, then a stiff sourdough starter
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isn't ideal and you only have weaker flours, then a stiff sourdough starter
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could be advised. The stiff sourdough starter will improve yeast activity and
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could be advised. The stiff sourdough starter will improve yeast activity and
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reduce bacterial activity. If you are a chaser of a very sour bread and have a
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reduce bacterial activity. If you are a chaser of a very sour bread and have a
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very strong wheat flour then you can try to play with a liquid sourdough
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very strong wheat flour then you can try to play with a liquid sourdough
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starter. The key difference between all of the starters is how much water
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starter. The key difference between all of the starters is how much water
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is used in the starter. The regular starter having a 1:1 relationship of flour
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is used in the starter. The regular starter has a 1:1 relationship of flour
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to water. The liquid starter has a 5:1 water to flour ratio and the stiff
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to water. The liquid starter has a 5:1 water-to-flour ratio, and the stiff
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starter has half the flour as water.
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starter has half the flour as water.
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\begin{figure}[!htb]
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\begin{figure}[!htb]
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@@ -36,28 +36,28 @@ starter has half the flour as water.
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You can change your starter type by just adjusting the feeding ratio of how
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You can change your starter type by just adjusting the feeding ratio of how
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much flour and water you use. I frequently changed my starter type from
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much flour and water you use. I frequently changed my starter type from
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regular to liquid and then back to a stiff starter. After changing the
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regular to liquid and then back to a stiff starter. After changing the
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environment of your microbes apply feedings at the same ratio over a couple of
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environment of your microbes, apply feedings at the same ratio over a couple of
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days so that they can adapt to the new environment. I could already see
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days so that they can adapt to the new environment. I could already see
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changes after a single feeding, but I recommend 2 to 3 feedings, one feeding per
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changes after a single feeding, but I recommend 2 to 3 feedings, one feeding per
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day to see a stronger effect.
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day, to see a stronger effect.
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Your dough is generally just a big sourdough starter. So your starter is going
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Your dough is generally just a big sourdough starter. So your starter is going
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to adapt and regrow inside of your main dough. But you can influence the
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to adapt and regrow inside of your main dough. But you can influence the
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properties that your starter carries over to your main dough. If you have more
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properties that your starter carries over to your main dough. If you have more
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bacterial fermentation then your dough will also have slightly more bacterial
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bacterial fermentation, then your dough will also have slightly more bacterial
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fermentation. If you have more yeast fermentation then your main dough will
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fermentation. If you have more yeast fermentation, then your main dough will
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have slightly more yeast fermentation. This is important to know when you are
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have slightly more yeast fermentation. This is important to know when you are
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working with a more mature unfed starter. Let's say your starter had last been
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working with a more mature unfed starter. Let's say your starter had last been
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fed 48 hours ago, then chances are your bacteria is very active while the
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fed 48 hours ago. Chances are that your bacteria is very active while the
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yeast could be dormant. In such a case you can skip feeding your starter
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yeast could be dormant. In such a case you can skip feeding your starter
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before making another dough. Just use a very tiny amount of starter. For 1000g
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before making another dough. Just use a very tiny amount of starter. For 1000 g
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of flour I would take around 10g of starter (1 percent in terms of baker's
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of flour I would take around 10 g of starter (1 percent in terms of baker's
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math). If my starter is very young and had just been fed 6 to 8 hours ago I might
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math). If my starter is very young and had just been fed 6 to 8 hours ago I might
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end up going up to 20 percent of starter. Remember that your dough is nothing
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end up going up to 20 percent of starter. Remember that your dough is nothing
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else other than a big starter. It will tremendously help you to figure out
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else other than a big starter. It will tremendously help you to figure out
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your best next steps.
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your best next steps.
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When using such a low inoculation rate (1 percent) you need to use stronger
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When using such a low inoculation rate (1 percent), you need to use stronger
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flour when making wheat-based doughs. Your flour naturally breaks down due
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flour when making wheat-based doughs. Your flour naturally breaks down due
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to enzymatic activity. It might take 24 hours for the starter to re-grow
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to enzymatic activity. It might take 24 hours for the starter to re-grow
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inside of your bread dough. At the same time, the enzymatic activity might
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inside of your bread dough. At the same time, the enzymatic activity might
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@@ -78,26 +78,26 @@ a longer fermentation before most gluten is broken down.
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The regular sourdough starter is made at a hydration of around 100 percent.
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The regular sourdough starter is made at a hydration of around 100 percent.
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This means the starter has equal parts of flour and water. This is the most
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This means the starter has equal parts of flour and water. This is the most
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common and must universal sourdough starter there is. The starter has a good
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common and must universal sourdough starter there is. The starter has a good
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balance of yeast and bacteria. After a feeding the volume increases and
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balance of yeast and bacteria. After a feeding, the volume increases and
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increases. After it reached a certain peak it will start to collapse again.
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increases. After it reached a certain peak, it will start to collapse again.
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The best way to judge whether the starter is ready is to look at signs such as
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The best way to judge whether the starter is ready is to look at signs such as
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pockets on the edges of your container. Also use the nose to to evaluate the
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pockets on the edges of your container. Also use the nose to to evaluate the
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smell of your starter. If you feel that the starter doesn't perform in a
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smell of your starter. If you feel that the starter doesn't perform in a
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desirable way chances are that your yeast and bacteria ratios are off. In that
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desirable way, chances are that your yeast and bacteria ratios are off. In that
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case frequently daily feedings using a 1:5:5 (starter:flour:water) ratio will
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case frequent daily feedings using a 1:5:5 (starter:flour:water) ratio will
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help.
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help.
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The starter is perfect to use when utilizing stronger wheat or spelt flours.
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The starter is perfect to use when utilizing stronger wheat or spelt flours.
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It also nicely works with rye, emmer or einkorn. If you only have a weak flour
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It also nicely works with rye, emmer or einkorn. If you only have a weak flour
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at hand with less gluten this starter might cause issue. As you tend to have
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at hand with less gluten, this starter might cause issues. As you tend to have
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quite some bacterial activity gluten is going to be broken down fast. When
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quite some bacterial activity, gluten is going to be broken down fast. When
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using the starter use around 1 to 20 percent starter based on the flour of your
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using the starter, use around 1 to 20 percent starter based on the flour of your
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dough.
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dough.
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Depending on the bacteria cultivated your starter either has a lactic (dairy),
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Depending on the bacteria cultivated, your starter either has a lactic (dairy),
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a vinegary (acetic) or mix of both flavour profile. You can adjust your
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a vinegary (acetic) or mix of both flavor profile. You can adjust your
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starter's flavour by changing the type to a liquid starter.
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starter's flavor by changing the type to a liquid starter.
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\section{Liquid starter}
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\section{Liquid starter}
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\label{section:liquid-starter}
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\label{section:liquid-starter}
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@@ -117,42 +117,42 @@ starter's flavour by changing the type to a liquid starter.
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\includegraphics{figures/fig-liquid-starter-conversion.pdf}
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\includegraphics{figures/fig-liquid-starter-conversion.pdf}
|
||||||
\caption{The process to convert your regular or stiff starter into a liquid starter. The whole
|
\caption{The process to convert your regular or stiff starter into a liquid starter. The whole
|
||||||
process takes around 3 days. The longer you maintain your starter at the
|
process takes around 3 days. The longer you maintain your starter at the
|
||||||
suggested hydration level the more adapted your microorganisms become. It is recommended
|
suggested hydration level, the more adapted your microorganisms become. It is recommended
|
||||||
to keep a backup of your original starter as the liquid environment will select
|
to keep a backup of your original starter as the liquid environment will select
|
||||||
an-aerobic microorganisms. This boosts bacteria that create lactic acid rather
|
anaerobic microorganisms. This boosts bacteria that create lactic acid rather
|
||||||
than acetic acid. The resulting acidity will be perceived as milder.}
|
than acetic acid. The resulting acidity will be perceived as milder.}
|
||||||
\label{fig:liquid-starter-conversion}
|
\label{fig:liquid-starter-conversion}
|
||||||
\end{figure}
|
\end{figure}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
The liquid starter is made at a hydration of around 500 percent. This means
|
The liquid starter is made at a hydration of around 500 percent. This means
|
||||||
the starter has way more water than flour. The additional layer of water on
|
the starter has much more water than flour. The additional layer of water on
|
||||||
top of the flour changes the microbiome of your starter.
|
top of the flour changes the microbiome of your starter.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
By introducing this layer of water less oxygen is available throughout the
|
By introducing this layer of water, less oxygen is available throughout the
|
||||||
course of fermentation. This means that your starter will no longer be
|
course of fermentation. This means that your starter will no longer be
|
||||||
producing acetic acid. The heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria will thrive
|
producing acetic acid. The heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria will thrive
|
||||||
in this environment. This is a neat little trick to change your starter's
|
in this environment. This is a neat little trick to change your starter's
|
||||||
flavour profile from vinegary to lactic. Your starter is going to develop
|
flavor profile from vinegary to lactic. Your starter is going to develop
|
||||||
dairy creamy notes. Interesting when changing the hydration again your starter
|
dairy creamy notes. Interestingly, when changing the hydration again, your starter
|
||||||
is going to maintain the liquid starter flavor profile, but then benefit again
|
is going to maintain the liquid starter flavor profile, but then benefit again
|
||||||
from enhanced yeast activity. The liquid starter conversion is non reversible.
|
from enhanced yeast activity. The liquid starter conversion is non reversible.
|
||||||
So ideally keep a backup of your starter before.
|
So ideally keep a backup of your stiff or regular starter.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
To commence with the
|
To commence with the
|
||||||
conversion simply take around 1 gram of your starter, mix with 5g flour and
|
conversion, simply take around 1 gram of your starter, mix with 5 g flour and
|
||||||
25g water. Stir everything together properly. After a few minutes the flour is
|
25 g water. Stir everything together properly. After a few minutes the flour is
|
||||||
going to start settling in at the bottom of your jar. Repeat this process over
|
going to start settling in at the bottom of your jar. Repeat this process over
|
||||||
a few days. Shake the starter gently to see if you can see tiny CO2 bubbles
|
a few days. Shake the starter gently to see if you can see tiny CO_{2} bubbles
|
||||||
moving in the liquid. This is a good sign that your starter is ready. Use your
|
moving in the liquid. This is a good sign that your starter is ready. Use your
|
||||||
nose to smell the starter. It should have a creamy dairy flavor note.
|
nose to smell the starter. It should have a creamy dairy flavor note.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
As you have more bacterial activity this starter works best with a very strong
|
As you have more bacterial activity, this starter works best with a very strong
|
||||||
flour that can withstand a long fermentation period. Using this starter with a
|
flour that can withstand a long fermentation period. Using this starter with a
|
||||||
weak wheat flour will not work. If you do not care about baking a free
|
weak wheat flour will not work. If you do not care about baking a freestanding loaf,
|
||||||
standing loaf then you can easily use this starter together with a loaf pan.
|
then you can easily use this starter together with a loaf pan.
|
||||||
This starter also works great when making a hearty pancake dough. To use it I
|
This starter also works great when making a hearty pancake dough. To use it I
|
||||||
shake the starter container until I see all ingredients are homogenized. Then
|
shake the starter container until I see all ingredients are homogenized. Then
|
||||||
I use around 5 percent of it in terms of baker's math. So for 1000g of flour
|
I use around 5 percent of it in terms of baker's math. So for 1000 g of flour
|
||||||
that's around 50 grams of liquid starter. As it is very liquid you have to
|
that's around 50 grams of liquid starter. As it is very liquid you have to
|
||||||
include the 50 grams in your liquid calculation. I typically treat the starter
|
include the 50 grams in your liquid calculation. I typically treat the starter
|
||||||
directly as liquid in the recipes. So if the recipe calls for 600 grams of water
|
directly as liquid in the recipes. So if the recipe calls for 600 grams of water
|
||||||
@@ -165,19 +165,19 @@ has a mold problem then the liquid conversion could be the remedy. Take a
|
|||||||
piece of your starter where you suspect no mold growth. Apply the conversion
|
piece of your starter where you suspect no mold growth. Apply the conversion
|
||||||
as mentioned before. The mold will likely sporulate as it runs out of food.
|
as mentioned before. The mold will likely sporulate as it runs out of food.
|
||||||
With each new feeding you are reducing the mold spores. The spores can no
|
With each new feeding you are reducing the mold spores. The spores can no
|
||||||
longe reactivate as they can not do so in the anaerobic conditions.
|
longer reactivate as they can not do so in the anaerobic conditions.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
The liquid on top of your starter is an excellent resource that you could use
|
The liquid on top of your starter is an excellent resource that you could use
|
||||||
to make sauces. If you feel you would like to add a little bit of acidity,
|
to make sauces. If you feel you would like to add a little bit of acidity,
|
||||||
drain the liquid part on your starter and use it. I have used it numerous
|
drain the liquid part on your starter and use it. I have used it numerous
|
||||||
times to make lactofermented hot sauces.
|
times to make lacto-fermented hot sauces.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
\section{Stiff starter}
|
\section{Stiff starter}
|
||||||
\label{section:stiff-starter}
|
\label{section:stiff-starter}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
\begin{figure}[!htb]
|
\begin{figure}[!htb]
|
||||||
\includegraphics[width=\textwidth]{sourdough-starter-stiff.jpg}
|
\includegraphics[width=\textwidth]{sourdough-starter-stiff.jpg}
|
||||||
\caption{A stiff sourdough starter that I used to make a Stollen dough for christmas. Note
|
\caption{A stiff sourdough starter that I used to make a Stollen dough for Christmas. Note
|
||||||
the bubbles on the edge of the container. The dough does not fall out of the jar.}
|
the bubbles on the edge of the container. The dough does not fall out of the jar.}
|
||||||
\label{fig:stiff-sourdough-starter}
|
\label{fig:stiff-sourdough-starter}
|
||||||
\end{figure}
|
\end{figure}
|
||||||
@@ -190,7 +190,7 @@ around 50 to 60 percent. So for 100 grams of flour you are using around 50 to
|
|||||||
\includegraphics{figures/fig-stiff-starter-conversion.pdf}
|
\includegraphics{figures/fig-stiff-starter-conversion.pdf}
|
||||||
\caption{The process to convert your regular starter into a stiff starter. The whole
|
\caption{The process to convert your regular starter into a stiff starter. The whole
|
||||||
process takes around 3 days. The longer you maintain your starter at the
|
process takes around 3 days. The longer you maintain your starter at the
|
||||||
suggested hydration level the more adapted your microorganisms become. The
|
suggested hydration level, the more adapted your microorganisms become. The
|
||||||
stiff starter boosts the yeast activity of your sourdough starter.
|
stiff starter boosts the yeast activity of your sourdough starter.
|
||||||
The guide uses a 50 percent hydration level for the starter. If the dough is too stiff
|
The guide uses a 50 percent hydration level for the starter. If the dough is too stiff
|
||||||
consider increasing this to 60 percent.}
|
consider increasing this to 60 percent.}
|
||||||
@@ -198,29 +198,29 @@ around 50 to 60 percent. So for 100 grams of flour you are using around 50 to
|
|||||||
\end{figure}
|
\end{figure}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
In the stiffer environment the yeast thrives more. This means you will have
|
In the stiffer environment the yeast thrives more. This means you will have
|
||||||
more CO2 production and less acid production. In my tests this is a game
|
more CO_{2} production and less acid production. In my tests this is a game
|
||||||
changer especially if you are using weaker gluten flours. The wheat flours in
|
changer especially if you are using weaker gluten flours. The wheat flours in
|
||||||
my home country Germany tend to be lower in gluten. For wheat to build gluten warm conditions
|
my home country of Germany tend to be lower in gluten. For wheat to build gluten, warm conditions
|
||||||
are preferred (SOURCE NEEDED). When following recipes from other bakers I
|
are preferred (SOURCE NEEDED). When following recipes from other bakers, I
|
||||||
could never achieve similar results. When following timings my doughs would
|
could never achieve similar results. When following timings my doughs would
|
||||||
simply collapse and become super sticky. Only when I started to buy more
|
simply collapse and become super sticky. Only when I started to buy more
|
||||||
expensive wheat flour my results started to change. As not everyone can afford
|
expensive wheat flour did my results start to change. As not everyone can afford
|
||||||
these special baking flours and due their limited availability I stumbled upon the
|
these special baking flours and due their limited availability, I stumbled upon the
|
||||||
stiff sourdough starter. I made several tests where I used the same amount of
|
stiff sourdough starter. I made several tests where I used the same amount of
|
||||||
starter and flour. I only changed the hydration between all the starters. I
|
starter and flour. I only changed the hydration between all the starters. I
|
||||||
would then proceed and place a balloon on top of each of the jars. The stiff
|
would then proceed and place a balloon on top of each of the jars. The stiff
|
||||||
starter jar was clearly inflated the most. On place 2 the regular starter
|
starter jar was clearly inflated the most. The regular starter
|
||||||
followed. On place three the liquid starter followed with way less CO2
|
followed in second place. The liquid starter finished in third place with far less CO_{2}
|
||||||
production.
|
production.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
\begin{figure}[!htb]
|
\begin{figure}[!htb]
|
||||||
\includegraphics[width=\textwidth]{stollen}
|
\includegraphics[width=\textwidth]{stollen}
|
||||||
\caption{A German christmas stollen made with a stiff starter instead of yeast}
|
\caption{A German Christmas stollen made with a stiff starter instead of yeast}
|
||||||
\label{fig:stollen}
|
\label{fig:stollen}
|
||||||
\end{figure}
|
\end{figure}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
I then proceeded and bought a cheap low cake flour in my nearby supermarket.
|
I then proceeded and bought a cheap low cake flour in my nearby supermarket.
|
||||||
This flour before had caused me massive headache before. I made a sourdough bread
|
This flour before had caused me massive headaches before. I made a sourdough bread
|
||||||
exactly how I would normally do. I had to reduce the hydration a bit as a low
|
exactly how I would normally do. I had to reduce the hydration a bit as a low
|
||||||
gluten flour does not soak up as much water. Then I replaced the starter with
|
gluten flour does not soak up as much water. Then I replaced the starter with
|
||||||
the stiff starter. The dough felt amazing and was suddenly able to withstand a
|
the stiff starter. The dough felt amazing and was suddenly able to withstand a
|
||||||
@@ -229,77 +229,77 @@ very mild. I am still yet to find a proper explanation why the yeast part of
|
|||||||
the dough is more active. Maybe it is not. It could also be that the bacteria
|
the dough is more active. Maybe it is not. It could also be that the bacteria
|
||||||
is inhibited by the lack of water.
|
is inhibited by the lack of water.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
When making the stiff sourdough starter start with using around 50 percent
|
When making the stiff sourdough starter, start with using around 50 percent
|
||||||
water. If you are using a whole wheat flour, or a strong flour consider going
|
water. If you are using a whole wheat flour, or a strong flour consider going
|
||||||
up to 60 percent. All the ingredients should mix together very well. There
|
up to 60 percent. All the ingredients should mix together very well. There
|
||||||
should be no crumbly flour left. This is a common mistake I have seen when
|
should be no crumbly flour left. This is a common mistake I have seen when
|
||||||
people tried to make the stiff starter. Yes it should be dry, but not to a
|
people tried to make the stiff starter. Yes it should be dry, but not to a
|
||||||
point where it is a brick of cement. If you ever made a pasta dough, this is
|
point where it is a brick of cement. If you have ever made a pasta dough, this is
|
||||||
exactly the same way how the dough should feel like.
|
exactly the same way the stiff starter should feel.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
To evaluate whether your stiff starter is ready look for a dome. Also look for
|
To evaluate whether your stiff starter is ready, look for a dome. Also look for
|
||||||
pockets of air on the edges of your container. Use your nose to smell the
|
pockets of air on the edges of your container. Use your nose to smell the
|
||||||
starter. It should have a mild smell. It also tends to smell way more
|
starter. It should have a mild smell. It also tends to smell much more
|
||||||
alcoholic than the other starters.
|
alcoholic than the other starters.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
When using the starter use around 1 to 20 percent depending on the ripeness of
|
When using the starter, use around 1 to 20 percent depending on the ripeness of
|
||||||
your starter. In summer times I typically use around 10 percent and in winter
|
your starter. In summer times I typically use around 10 percent and in winter
|
||||||
times around 20 percent. This way you can also control the fermentation speed.
|
times around 20 percent. This way you can also control the fermentation speed.
|
||||||
Mixing the starter can be a little bit annoying as it hardly homogenises with
|
Mixing the starter can be a little bit annoying as it hardly homogenizes with
|
||||||
the rest of the dough. In this case you can try to dissolve the starter in the
|
the rest of the dough. In this case you can try to dissolve the starter in the
|
||||||
water you are about to use for your dough. This will make mixing a lot easier.
|
water you are about to use for your dough. This will make mixing a lot easier.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
\section{Lievito madre or pasta madre}
|
\section{Lievito madre or pasta madre}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
The Lievito madre also known as pasta madre belongs to the same category as
|
The lievito madre, also known as pasta madre, belongs to the same category as
|
||||||
the stiff sourdough starter. After conducting hours of research I could not
|
the stiff sourdough starter. After conducting hours of research, I could not
|
||||||
find a difference in pasta madre and lievito madre. Both of terms seem to be
|
find a difference in pasta madre and lievito madre. Both of terms seem to be
|
||||||
used interchangeably in literature.
|
used interchangeably in literature.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
In many recipes this starter is made directly
|
In many recipes this starter is made directly
|
||||||
from dried or fresh fruits. You can make a starter also from leaves from your
|
from dried or fresh fruits. You can make a starter also from leaves from your
|
||||||
garden. As described before the wild yeast and bacteria consume the glucose
|
garden. As described before, the wild yeast and bacteria consume the glucose
|
||||||
from the plants leaves. All the options work. When making a starter directly
|
from the plants' leaves. All the options work. When making a starter directly
|
||||||
from dried fruits you sometimes lack the bacterial part of the fermentation.
|
from dried fruits, you sometimes lack the bacterial part of the fermentation.
|
||||||
The acidity is very important in order to clean your starter from possible
|
The acidity is very important in order to clean your starter from possible
|
||||||
pathogens. If you decide to make your starter from fruits make sure it also
|
pathogens. If you decide to make your starter from fruits, make sure it also
|
||||||
acidifies properly when making a dough. A tool such as a pH meter can be of
|
acidifies properly when making a dough. A tool such as a pH meter can be of
|
||||||
optimal help. Generally the lower the pH the higher the acidity. The acidity
|
optimal help. Generally, the lower the pH, the higher the acidity. The acidity
|
||||||
should be below 4.2 to know that your starter produces sufficient acidity.
|
should be below 4.2 to know that your starter produces sufficient acidity.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
Some bakers cleanse the lievito madre in a bath of water. This is supposed to
|
Some bakers cleanse the lievito madre in a bath of water. This is supposed to
|
||||||
remove excess acidity. In my own experiments I have not been able to confirm
|
remove excess acidity. In my own experiments I have not been able to confirm
|
||||||
this methodology. The acidity remains the same. The only reason this could
|
this methodology. The acidity remains the same. The only reason this could
|
||||||
make sense is if you also tried to boost anaerobic microorganisms. However then the
|
make sense is if you also tried to boost anaerobic microorganisms. However, then the
|
||||||
starter would need to remain in this environment for quite some time and not just
|
starter would need to remain in this environment for quite some time and not just
|
||||||
a few hours.
|
a few hours.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
Baking with sourdough is simple. It's just flour and water. When seeing a recipe
|
Baking with sourdough is simple. It's just flour and water. When seeing a recipe
|
||||||
from an experienced baker you wonder, wait, that's it? There is nothing more
|
from an experienced baker you wonder, Wait, that's it? There is nothing more
|
||||||
to it? I feel that this might be the reason why some bakers have so complicated
|
to it? I feel that this might be the reason why some bakers have such complicated
|
||||||
feeding procedures. They resort to several feedings per day at a certain given ratio.
|
feeding procedures. They resort to several feedings per day at a certain given ratio.
|
||||||
This makes the baker feel a little more elitist. Of course over time as
|
This makes the baker feel a little more elitist. Of course over time as
|
||||||
more and more people follow this procedure it becomes a self fulfilling prophecy.
|
more and more people follow this procedure, it becomes a self fulfilling prophecy.
|
||||||
The more experienced you become the higher the chances are that a bogus starter
|
The more experienced you become, the higher the chances are that a bogus starter
|
||||||
feeding guide will reward you with beautiful results. The reason however is
|
feeding guide will reward you with beautiful results. The reason however is
|
||||||
not in the starter routine. The reason is that you better understand the fermentation
|
not in the starter routine. The reason is that you better understand the fermentation
|
||||||
and become better at reading the signs of your dough.
|
and become better at reading the signs of your dough.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
If I had one starter type to choose I would go for the stiff starter. In many cases
|
If I had one starter type to choose, I would go for the stiff starter. In many cases
|
||||||
it will provide you with consistent great results with little effort.
|
it will provide you with consistent great results with little effort.
|
||||||
In my experience you can make any yeast based dough and just replace
|
In my experience you can make any yeast-based dough and just replace
|
||||||
the yeast directly with the stiff sourdough starter. You will be able
|
the yeast directly with the stiff sourdough starter. You will be able
|
||||||
to achieve even better results with the stiff starter.
|
to achieve even better results with the stiff starter.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
Lastly no matter which starter type you choose, you can control how sour
|
Lastly, no matter which starter type you choose, you can control how sour
|
||||||
you want your dough to be. The longer you push the fermentation the more
|
you want your dough to be. The longer you push the fermentation, the more
|
||||||
acidity is going to be piled up. The only difference is that for a given
|
acidity is going to be piled up. The only difference is that for a given
|
||||||
volume increase the stiff starter will produce the least acidity. So for a
|
volume increase, the stiff starter will produce the least acidity. So for a
|
||||||
volume increase of 100 percent, the liquid starter has produced most acidity,
|
volume increase of 100 percent, the liquid starter has produced the most acidity,
|
||||||
followed by the regular starter and then the stiff starter. If you wait long
|
followed by the regular starter and then the stiff starter. If you wait long
|
||||||
enough the stiff starter will have produced the same amount of acidity as the
|
enough, the stiff starter will have produced the same amount of acidity as the
|
||||||
other starters. But before doing so it also has produced a lot more CO2. If
|
other starters. But before doing so it will have also produced a lot more CO_{2}. If
|
||||||
you like the sour flavour you have to push your fermentation longer. This also
|
you like the sour flavor, you have to push your fermentation longer. This also
|
||||||
means you either need to bake in a loaf pan or have a very strong gluten flour
|
means you either need to bake in a loaf pan or have a very strong gluten flour
|
||||||
that is able to withstand long fermentation times.
|
that is able to withstand long fermentation times.
|
||||||
|
|||||||
Reference in New Issue
Block a user