How To Dehydrate A Sourdough Starter

How to Dehydrate Your Sourdough Starter

So, you’ve been nurturing your sourdough starter and it’s thriving. But what if you need to take a break from baking? Or perhaps you want to share your starter with a friend? Dehydrating your sourdough starter is a great way to preserve it for future use. Here’s how to do it:

What You’ll Need

Before you start the dehydration process, make sure you have the following:

• A mature and active sourdough starter
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• A non-stick baking sheet
• A dehydrator or an oven
• Airtight container for storing the dehydrated starter

Steps to Dehydrate Your Sourdough Starter

Follow these simple steps to dehydrate your sourdough starter:

1. Prepare the Starter: Take a small amount of your active sourdough starter and spread it thinly and evenly onto a parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
2. Dehydrate: If you’re using a dehydrator, set it to the lowest temperature (around 100°F or 38°C) and dehydrate the starter for 8-12 hours. If you’re using an oven, set it to the lowest temperature and prop the door open slightly. Dehydrate the starter for 6-8 hours, checking on it periodically.
3. Check for Dryness: The dehydrated starter should be brittle and easily break into pieces. If it’s still slightly soft, continue dehydrating for another hour or so.
4. Store: Once the starter is completely dehydrated, allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, break it into small pieces and store them in an airtight container, away from moisture and light.

Reviving the Dehydrated Starter

When you’re ready to use your dehydrated sourdough starter, simply follow these steps to revive it:

1. Take a small piece of the dehydrated starter and place it in a clean jar or bowl.
2. Add equal parts of water and flour to the starter (e.g., 1 tablespoon of each).
3. Stir the mixture until well combined, cover it loosely, and let it sit at room temperature for 8-12 hours.
4. After this time, you should start to see some bubbles forming, indicating that the starter is active and ready to use.

Dehydrating your sourdough starter is a convenient way to preserve it for future use. Whether you’re taking a break from baking or sharing your starter with a friend, following these simple steps will ensure that your sourdough starter stays viable and ready to create delicious bread whenever you need it.