Sourdough Starter: The Holy Grail of Home Baking in Chicago
So, you've decided to embark on the glorious journey of sourdough baking. Welcome to the club! But wait, there's a catch: you need a sourdough starter. And if you're in the Windy City, you might be wondering, "Where on Earth can I find this magical bubbly concoction?" Fear not, sourdough seeker, I'm here to guide you through the labyrinth of Chicago's sourdough starter scene.
The Great Sourdough Starter Hunt
Finding a sourdough starter in Chicago is like searching for the Holy Grail (but hopefully less perilous). While you can technically capture wild yeast from the air and nurture your own starter, let's be honest, who has the patience for that? We live in the age of instant gratification, people!
Your Best Bets:
- Local Bakeries: Many artisanal bakeries in Chicago are happy to share a portion of their starter love. Places like Publican Quality Bread and Floriole are known for their exceptional sourdough and might be willing to part with a little bit of their bubbly treasure. Just be prepared to sweet-talk them with your best puppy-dog eyes.
- Farmers Markets: Some farmers markets in Chicago have vendors who sell sourdough starters. It's a great way to support local businesses and get your hands on a fresh, flavorful starter.
- Online Retailers: If you're short on time or patience, there are online retailers that ship sourdough starters right to your doorstep. Just make sure to read the reviews and choose a reputable seller.
Tips for Buying Sourdough Starter
- Ask Questions: Don't be shy! Ask the baker or vendor about the age of the starter, how it's fed, and any tips they have for caring for it.
- Start Small: You don't need a gallon of starter to begin your sourdough adventure. A small amount is enough to get you started.
- Feed Your Starter Regularly: Once you have your starter, remember to feed it regularly to keep it healthy and active.
How to Maintain Your Sourdough Starter
Now that you have your precious sourdough starter, it's time to learn how to care for it. Here are a few basic tips:
- How to feed your sourdough starter: Typically, you feed it with equal parts flour and water.
- How to store your sourdough starter: It can be stored in the refrigerator when not in use.
- How to know if your sourdough starter is ready: It should be bubbly and have a pleasant sour aroma.
- How to discard old sourdough starter: When your starter is too thick, discard half and replace it with fresh flour and water.
- How to troubleshoot common sourdough starter problems: If your starter is too wet or too dry, adjust the amount of flour or water accordingly.
With a little patience and care, you'll be baking delicious sourdough bread in no time!
