Erika's Sourdough
Not Just Bread, It's a Lifestyle
Sourdough isn't just bread; it's a slice of a healthier, happier life. Baked in my very own kitchen, these loaves are my way of sharing a piece of my family's journey to more natural, wholesome living.
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The Story
Over the last year my family and I have been on a journey of better living, embracing a more holistic lifestyle. One of those changes has resulted in more home cooking. One day a sourdough saga randomly unfolded and since then has been a labor of love, patience, and some fun. You asked and I am putting my self out there. At the heart of my sourdough is "Bertha," the cherished starter that's more than just an ingredient—it's part of the family.
The Awakening of Bertha
Every loaf begins with Bertha, my trusted sourdough starter. This living, bubbling mixture of flour and water has been nurtured with care, developing a complex ecosystem of yeast and bacteria. I affectionately feed Bertha, maintaining the perfect balance of acidity and fermentation essential for that distinctive sourdough tang and fluffy texture.
The Mixing
My process is a blend of newly found skills from YouTube and tradition. I begin by combining Bertha with natural ingredients—flour, pure water, and a pinch of salt. There's no rush in the kitchen; every ingredient is mixed by hand.
The First Rise
Patience is key. Once mixed, the dough embarks on its first rise, a slow and steady process where the magic of fermentation begins. I give the dough plenty of time to develop its flavors and structure, a crucial phase where Bertha imparts her unique characteristics to the mix.
Shaping and Proofing
My hands mold it into its final form. It's then left to proof, a final rise that puffs the dough up, ready for the oven. This is where the dough's true character emerges, I hand carve the dough and time everything carefully ensuring it's perfectly poised for baking.
The Bake
At last I place my unique creation in the oven, where the heat works its magic. The dough transforms, developing a golden crust and a soft, airy interior, the hallmark of a perfectly baked sourdough loaf. At last, the oven door opens, revealing a masterpiece. (I hope?)
The Joy of Sharing
My sourdough journey doesn't end with the baking. Each loaf, a symbol of my new lifestyle is meant to be shared. From feeding Bertha to slicing into a freshly baked loaf, my process is a celebration of the simple, beautiful act of making and sharing bread.
