Homemade Sourdough Starter Recipe

Instructions:

Day 1: Creating the Starter

1. In a clean glass jar or bowl, combine 1 cup flour and ½ cup water.
2. Add 1 tbsp sugar or honey (if using) and mix well until smooth with no dry flour patches.
3. Cover loosely with a lid, cheesecloth, or a clean kitchen towel.
4. Let sit at room temperature (70–75°F / 21–24°C) for 24 hours.

Day 2: First Feeding
5. After 24 hours, check for small bubbles (signs of fermentation).
6. Feed the starter: Add ½ cup flour + ¼ cup water, stir well, and re-cover.
7. Let rest another 24 hours.

Days 3–7: Daily Feedings
8. Repeat feeding daily (½ cup flour + ¼ cup water), discarding half if it outgrows the jar.
9. Watch for bubbles, a tangy aroma, and doubling in size—this means it’s active!

Maintenance:

• Once mature, use it for baking or store in the fridge.
• Refrigerated starters need weekly feedings (1:1:1 ratio of starter:flour:water).

🌟 Tip: If liquid (hooch) forms, stir it in or pour it off before feeding.

Enjoy your bubbly, homemade sourdough starter! 🥖