As a long-time member of the #silvergoldstackers community and self-proclaimed "master-baker," my love of baking has recently been rekindled. Years ago, I was ahead of the curve, maintaining my beloved sourdough starter, Mildred, well before sourdough became a lockdown phenomenon. Mildred helped me create countless loaves that my family devoured with delight, but over time, my baking took a back seat, and she sadly met her end.
This Christmas, my amazing wife reignited my passion by gifting me a rye sourdough starter. After weeks of nurturing, it has flourished, and today, it delivered a family-sized loaf that was perfectly crispy on the outside, chewy in the middle, and full of that signature tang. This moment reminded me why I love baking bread and why sourdough is such a special tradition.
Sourdough bread is a natural marvel, relying on wild yeast and lactobacilli in a fermented mix of flour and water to leaven the dough. This simple process eliminates the need for processed yeast, producing a bread that is as wholesome as it is delicious. Beyond the rich, complex flavours, sourdough offers health benefits, including improved digestion and better nutrient absorption. The natural fermentation process breaks down gluten and enhances gut-friendly bacteria, making it a more accessible option for some who struggle with conventional bread.
Baking itself has its benefits too. For me, kneading dough and watching it transform into something nourishing is a way to unwind and reconnect with life’s simpler pleasures. The act of baking is meditative, and sharing the result with my family brings a sense of accomplishment and joy.
In an age of convenience and processed foods, sourdough baking is an antidote. It’s a return to traditional methods, creating bread with just flour, water, and salt—no unnecessary additives. It’s a skill that fosters self-reliance and can be passed down through generations.
Sourdough baking also represents resilience. Maintaining a starter, feeding it, and nurturing it mirrors the patience and care we need in life. Each loaf is a reminder of the value of time, effort, and intention.
Baking my latest loaf has reminded me of the simple joys of life. It’s a practice that feeds the soul as much as the body, combining nourishment, creativity, and connection. Sourdough is more than just bread; it’s a tradition, a craft, and a delicious way to embrace what truly matters.