This is a comprehensive guide on how to feed and maintain a sourdough starter as well as troubleshooting common issues.
You'll find practical advice and expert tips to help successfully nurture and sustain a healthy sourdough starter for delicious homemade sourdough bread.
A sourdough starter plays a pivotal role in the sourdough bread baking process due to its unique properties and benefits.
Firstly, it serves as a natural leavening agent, replacing commercial yeast. The wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria present in the starter contribute to the fermentation process, resulting in a more flavorful and aromatic bread.
Secondly, sourdough starters enhance the texture and structure of baked goods, providing a desirable chewiness and improved shelf life.
Lastly, sourdough fermentation breaks down complex carbohydrates and gluten, making the bread easier to digest for those with gluten sensitivities. The complex flavors, improved texture, and digestive benefits make a sourdough starter a valuable asset in baking.
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How often should I feed my sourdough starter?
The frequency of feeding your sourdough starter depends on various factors such as ambient temperature, desired fermentation speed, and your baking schedule.
In general, feeding your starter once a day or once a week is a common practice. However, the frequency can be adjusted based on the following guidelines:
- Daily Feeding: If you maintain your starter at room temperature (around 70-75°F or 21-24°C) and want it to be ready for baking within a day or two, daily feedings are recommended. Discard a portion of the starter and feed it with fresh flour and water every 24 hours.
- Twice-Daily Feeding: In warmer environments or if you prefer a faster fermentation process, you can feed your starter twice a day, approximately every 12 hours. This helps maintain a more active and vigorous starter.
- Refrigerator Storage: If you don't plan to bake frequently or want to slow down the fermentation process, you can store your starter in the refrigerator. When refrigerated, the feeding frequency can be reduced to once a week or even every two weeks. Remember to feed the starter and allow it to ferment at room temperature for a few hours before returning it to the refrigerator.
The key is to observe your starter's behavior and adjust the feeding frequency accordingly.
If it starts to develop a strong sour smell, becomes overly bubbly, or shows signs of slowing down (e.g., taking longer to rise after feeding), it may be an indication that your starter needs more frequent feedings.
How much should I feed my sourdough starter?
Feeding ratios in sourdough starters refer to the proportion of flour and water used when refreshing or feeding the starter. The feeding ratio is typically represented as a ratio of flour and water to starter.
The ratios listed below result in a hydration level of 100%, meaning the weight of water equals the weight of flour.
Common feeding ratios for sourdough starters include:
1:1:1 Ratio: This ratio means using equal parts of flour, water, and starter by weight. For example, if you have 100 grams of a starter, you would feed it with 100 grams of flour and 100 grams of water.
This starter will rise quicker than a higher ratio of flour/water to the starter. Use this ratio if you want a starter that is ready in 4-6 hours.
1:4:4 Ratio: This ratio involves using four times the weight of flour and water compared to the starter. For instance, if you have 25 grams of starter, you would feed it with 100 grams of flour and 100 grams of water. Use this ratio if you want a sourdough starter that is ready to bake within 10-12 hours.
It's a good practice to experiment with different ratios and observe how they impact your sourdough baking results until you find a ratio that works well for your desired bread texture and flavor.
How to refresh your starter after it has been in the fridge for a while
A mature sourdough starter can last for several weeks kept in a refrigerator without being fed.
If your sourdough starter has been in the fridge for a while and you want to give it a refresh, follow the steps below.
- Discard all but 25 grams and add 100 grams of filtered water and 100 grams of flour.
- Mix vigorously with a spatula, cover lightly, and set on the counter for a few hours to allow the yeast to multiply.
- Place the jar back into the fridge until the next time it needs to be refreshed or you wish to bake sourdough.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best flour to feed my sourdough starter?
When feeding your sourdough starter, it is generally recommended to use high-quality, unbleached organic flour. The type of flour you choose can impact the flavor, activity, and overall health of your starter. Here are some common flour options for feeding your sourdough starter:
- All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour, which is a blend of hard and soft wheat, is a popular choice for feeding sourdough starter. It provides a good balance of protein and starch, which promotes a healthy fermentation process.
- Bread Flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content compared to all-purpose flour. This can contribute to increased gluten development and give your sourdough starter extra strength and structure.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Whole wheat flour adds nutritional value to your starter as it contains the bran and germ of the wheat kernel. It can provide a slightly nuttier flavor and enhance the complexity of your sourdough bread.
- Rye Flour: Rye flour can be used in combination with other flours or as a standalone option for feeding your sourdough starter. Rye flour contains enzymes that can help boost fermentation activity and contribute to a distinct flavor profile.
- Spelt Flour: Spelt flour is an ancient grain that can be used to feed your sourdough starter. It has a nutty flavor and can add a unique character to your bread.
It's worth noting that different types of flours may result in variations in flavor, fermentation speed, and texture.
You can experiment with different flour combinations and ratios to find the ones that produce the desired results for your baking preferences.
Additionally, using organic or locally sourced flours can add further depth to the flavor of your sourdough starter and bread.
What kind of water should I use in my sourdough starter?
When it comes to choosing water for feeding your sourdough starter, using water that is free from chlorine, chloramine, or other strong chemicals is generally recommended. Here are a few considerations:
- Filtered Water: Using filtered water, such as water from a home filtration system or a countertop filter, is a popular choice. It helps remove impurities and chemicals that could potentially hinder the activity of the natural yeasts and bacteria in your sourdough starter.
- Spring Water: Natural spring water can be an excellent option for feeding your sourdough starter. It is generally free from chlorine and other additives, and it often contains beneficial minerals that can contribute to the overall health and flavor of your starter.
- Tap Water: If your tap water is chlorinated, it's advisable to let it sit in an open container for at least 24 hours before using it to feed your starter. This allows chlorine to dissipate, as it can potentially have a negative impact on the fermentation process.
It's important to note that the quality and characteristics of water can vary depending on your location.
If you're unsure about the quality of your tap water, consider using filtered or spring water as a more reliable option.
Ultimately, the goal is to provide your sourdough starter with water that is free from chemicals that could inhibit its fermentation activity.
Can I use the discarded sourdough starter in recipes?
Yes, you can save and make use of sourdough discard in recipes. Sourdough discard refers to the portion of the starter that you remove and discard during the feeding process.
Instead of discarding it, you can repurpose the discard in various recipes to avoid waste and enjoy its unique flavor.
Collect the discarded sourdough starter in a separate container and store it in the fridge.
Here are a few ideas for using sourdough discard:
- Pancakes and Waffles: Incorporate the sourdough discard into pancake or waffle batters for added tanginess and flavor.
- Bread and Rolls: Add sourdough discard to zucchini bread or cinnamon rolls to enhance their flavor and texture. It can be used in combination with commercial yeast or in recipes specifically designed for sourdough discard.
- Crackers and Flatbreads: Use sourdough discard to make homemade crackers, tortillas, or naan. It adds a pleasant tang and complexity to these snacks.
- Quick Breads and Muffins: Incorporate sourdough discard into quick breads like banana bread or muffins. It adds moisture and a unique flavor profile to the baked goods.
- Pizza Dough: Make our easy sourdough pizza crust recipe for a unique flavor and improved texture.
How to make a backup of sourdough starter
Creating a backup of your sourdough starter is recommended in case of accidental loss or contamination. Here are a couple of ways you can make a backup.
How to dry sourdough starter
Spread 200 grams of active sourdough starter into a thin layer on a silicone mat or a piece of parchment paper. Allow it to air dry completely, for about 3-4 days depending on the temperature and humidity of your kitchen.
TIP: Store the sheet in a cold oven to keep it free from any debris that might be floating in the air. Place a sticky note on the oven so that you don't forget it's in there!
Once it's dry, break the starter into pieces and place them in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store in a cool dry place for 6-12 months.
How to revive dried sourdough starter
To revive the dried sourdough starter, add 50 grams to a clean jar with 100 grams of water and 100 grams of flour. Let sit for 24 hours at room temperature.
The next day transfer 25 grams to a new jar and feed with 100 grams of water and 100 grams of flour. Feed the starter once a day until it starts to double in size.
How to freeze the sourdough starter
Pour the starter into an ice cube tray and place in the freezer until frozen. Transfer the cubes into a freezer-safe container and keep them frozen for up to 1 year.
How to revive frozen sourdough starter
To reactivate the frozen starter, place a cube into a jar and allow it to thaw. Once fully thawed, feed with 100g water and 100g flour.
The next day transfer 25 grams to a new jar and feed with 100 grams of water and 100 grams of flour. Feed the starter once a day until it starts to double in size.
Troubleshooting guide
Troubleshooting problems with a sourdough starter can help identify and address issues that may affect its health and performance. Here are some common problems you may encounter with your sourdough starter and suggestions on how to troubleshoot them:
Slow Fermentation or Lack of Activity
- Check the temperature: Ensure that your sourdough starter is kept in an environment with a consistent temperature between 70-75°F (21-24°C) for optimal fermentation.
- Adjust feeding schedule: Consider increasing the frequency of feedings to provide more food for the microorganisms, or try using a higher hydration ratio to boost activity.
Foul or Off Odor
- Evaluate your feeding routine: Check if you're feeding your sourdough starter often enough. A strong, unpleasant smell can indicate that the starter needs more frequent feedings.
- Discard and rebuild: If the off odor persists, you may consider starting over as it may be contaminated.
Hooch (Liquid) Separation
- Adjust feeding frequency: Hooch (a brownish liquid) that forms on top of your starter between feedings, indicates that the starter is hungry.
- Stir or pour off excess hooch: If hooch forms, stir it back into the starter or pour it off before feeding.
- Reduce hydration: If your starter consistently produces excessive hooch, try lowering the hydration level by using a lower water-to-flour ratio during feedings.
Mold Growth
- Maintain cleanliness: Ensure that all equipment used for your starter is clean and free from any contaminants.
- Avoid cross-contamination: Store your starter away from other ferments or food sources that could introduce unwanted molds or bacteria.
- Discard and start fresh: If mold growth occurs, it's best to discard the affected starter and begin a new batch using a thoroughly cleaned container and fresh ingredients.
Remember, sourdough starters can be resilient and may require some experimentation and adjustments to find the best practices for your specific environment and routine.
Observing your starter's behavior, making small modifications, and maintaining a consistent feeding schedule will help troubleshoot and maintain a healthy and active sourdough starter.
More sourdough baking resources
- Beginner Sourdough Starter Recipe
- Signs that your sourdough starter is ready to bake with
- Baking conversion chart
- Essential tools for sourdough bread baking
- Sourdough glossary
- Baking conversion chart
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This post was first published in May 2020 and revised in May 2023 with updated information and photos.
Susan says
Thank you so much for this site - great tips and fabulous recipes! My question is about making the levain (prior to making your Country Sourdough Bread). I keep my starter in the refrigerator, feeding it once a week. Is it better to use recently fed or 'hungry' starter for levain? I've looked and haven't been able to find the answer to this. Thanks!
Amy Duska says
Hi Susan, anytime a recipe calls for "active" starter, it means that the starter has been recently fed, has risen and is ready to bake with. 🙂
E says
I've been saving my mother with the no discard method. I took the 10 g and mixed it according to instrcutions. After 12 hours it has not doubled. I am also starting to run low on my mother, what steps can I take to make sure it's strong enough and that I have enough left to use?
Amy Duska says
Hi there. If it was me I would feed and discard for a few days to build her back up. I use 25g starter, 100g water and 100g flour. I use a ratio of 75% all-purpose flour and 25% whole wheat flour to feed my starter. You will have discard left over for these days but save it and you can make pizza or crackers or a variety of different recipes with it.
Frances says
I love your recipes and discovered that your feeding ratios work best for our Southern California weather.
Do I have to feed the discard before using it to wake it up or just use it even though it’s been sitting in the fridge for a week?
Amy Duska says
Hi Frances! If you are going to bake a recipe that calls for active starter, then yes, make sure to feed it and let it rise before mixing the dough.
Mary D says
I'm so glad that I found your site! I finally understand the process for the care and feeding of my new sourdough starter. I can hardly wait to make my first loaf and will be using my discard this coming week to try the great recipes you have here. Very grateful!
Amy Duska says
You're welcome! 🙂
Jess says
Hi Amy!
Your resources are all so fantastic and simple to follow. I’m obsessed with my new passion for sourdough!
I was given a good starter by a friend, fed it once (100g flour + 100g water). It rose quickly and passed a float test with flying colours. I then used some of it to bake your bagel recipe.Very proud of the result.
I have been trying to work out how to maintain the starter (as I would like to be baking once per week). I have followed your instructions for the discard method (with the 1:4:4 ratio) adding 25g of the starter to a new jar plus 50g flour and 50g water (putting the rest in another jar as discard). The new mother didn’t double over a 24hr period, I kept checking it but it only rose a little. It became bubbly but quite runny and failed a float test.
Should I feed it again with 50g water + 50g flour until it doubles? Do I discard before feeding again or will it not be strong enough to double from 25g of starter plus the water and flour? ...also, is it ok to put it in the sun to be warm to rise?
A little worried I may ‘kill’ my new mother trying to make it strong enough to bake with.
Jess x
Amy Duska says
Hi Jess, feed the 25g of starter with 100g water and 100g flour everyday for one week. 12 hours after the first feeding, add 2 tablespoons flour and 2 teaspoons of water everyday. So that means feed and discard at the first feeding and only feed at the second feeding. Sometimes it needs a boost to help it get going. After a week, it should be rising and falling.
Lisa says
On days 3-7 Do I discard everyday or just keep feeding? I’m a little confused! Awaiting your reply! Thanks Lisa
Amy Duska says
Discard every day!
Gracie M says
If you aren't ready to bake in the am after letting it bulk ferment overnight, can you refrigerate it all day and bake at night? How long do you let it sit for the 2nd rise if it's been in the frig 8-10 hrs before baking?
Amy Duska says
Yes you can. If it has already risen overnight before you place it in the fridge, take it out while your oven preheats to rise. It shouldn't need too much time.
Christi says
I made my first loaf of sourdough and it was beautiful!! Your instructions are so easy, thank you! I will probably bake once or twice a week. After I baked the first loaf, I wasn’t sure what to do with the mother, so I fed her again and kept her on the counter. Should I have put her in the fridge after I fed her or let her sit out to rise and fall again or ??
Amy Duska says
Hi Christi, keep her in the fridge when you are not baking. This will keep her from needing to be fed everyday. She will basically go to sleep until next time!
Ernesto Antonio Umana says
What is the daily feeding schedule one should follow to revive a dehydrated starter? Does it include discarding?
Amy Duska says
Place 50 grams of dried starter in a jar and cover with 100 grams of water. Let sit for 30 minutes for the starter to absorb the water.
Give it a stir and then add 50 grams of whole wheat flour + 50 grams of all-purpose flour and 50 grams of water. Add more water if it is too thick.
Continue to give it daily feedings, discarding until it is active and bubbly.
Erika says
Hi! I love your recipes. My question is if i do different ratios of feeding the mother should it rise at different ratios? Or should it always double?
Thanks!
Amy Duska says
It should always double 🙂
Ange says
Hi Amy,
Thank you for your great website. I am totally new to sourdough baking. Your website has provided so much information and were easy to follow. My question is with the dried sourdough, I followed the steps and mixed with flour and water. Left it and went more than double. My question is do I have to feed it again? Awaiting your reply.
Amy Duska says
Hi Ange! Yes, continue to feed it if you need active starter to bake with. 🙂
Luke says
Hi Amy - thanks for the great website...top stuff. I am at the end of week 1 - starter is OK - but I did not refridgerate the discard... and it has grown ... in size and had spores on the glass... and it stinks like cheap stale wine...with a little hooch... I mixed everything back in together , planning to feed it a little and fridge it and soldier on.... or do I throw it out ? Figuring that if it is used in baking it won't kill me... cast iron gut !
Amy Duska says
Hi Luke, if the starter has spores I would definitely throw it out. It sounds like it is growing mold.