How to Store Sourdough Starter in the Fridge: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Sourdough is a type of bread made with wild yeast, water, and flour. To make sourdough, a starter is needed. A starter is a combination of wild yeast, water, and flour that has been fermented over time. This starter can be used to make various types of sourdough breads. However, storing the starter can be tricky. The following article will explore how to store sourdough starter in the fridge.

Transferring Sourdough Starter to a Glass Jar

The first step in storing sourdough starter in the fridge is to transfer it to a glass jar. Using a glass jar has several benefits. Glass jars are non-porous, so they won’t absorb any odors or flavors from the starter. They also don’t leach chemicals into the starter like plastic containers can. Finally, they are much easier to clean than plastic containers, which can be scratched and retain bacteria.

To transfer the starter to the glass jar, begin by measuring out the desired amount of starter. Once you have the right amount, place it in the glass jar and cover the jar with a lid. Make sure the lid is tight so that no air can get in.

Covering the Sourdough Starter with Plastic Wrap

Once the starter is in the glass jar, it should be covered with plastic wrap. Plastic wrap has both advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, it prevents the starter from drying out and keeps any odors from escaping. On the downside, it can be difficult to apply and can tear easily. Additionally, some people may be concerned about the safety of using plastic wrap because of potential chemical leaching.

When applying the plastic wrap, make sure to press it firmly against the glass jar. This will help prevent air from getting in and keep the starter fresh. Additionally, make sure to use a food-safe type of plastic wrap.

Feeding the Starter Weekly and Storing in an Airtight Container

After the starter has been transferred to a glass jar and covered with plastic wrap, it should be fed weekly. Feeding the starter helps to keep it alive and active. To feed the starter, combine equal parts of all-purpose flour and water and stir until combined. Then add the mixture to the starter and stir until fully incorporated.

Once the starter has been fed, it should be stored in an airtight container. This will ensure that the starter stays fresh and doesn’t spoil. There are several types of containers suitable for storage, such as glass jars, ceramic crocks, and plastic containers. Choose a container that best fits your needs.

Measuring the Amount of Starter to Store in the Fridge

Before storing the starter in the fridge, it is important to measure the amount of starter that will be stored. This helps to ensure that the starter will last for a long time and remain fresh. When determining the measurements, it is important to keep in mind that the starter should not fill more than one-third of the container. The container should also be large enough to allow for the starter to expand when it is being fed.

To measure the starter accurately, it is best to use a kitchen scale. This will ensure that the correct measurements are taken. Additionally, measuring spoons can be used if a kitchen scale is not available.

Keeping the Sourdough Starter in a Mason Jar

Another option for storing the starter is to keep it in a mason jar. Mason jars are a great choice for storing sourdough starter because they are airtight and have a wide mouth, which makes it easy to access the starter. Additionally, the jars come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that best fits your needs.

When storing the starter in a mason jar, make sure that the lid is tightly sealed. This will prevent any air from getting in and keep the starter fresh. Additionally, make sure to label the jar with the date the starter was created and the date it was last fed.

Making Sure the Container is Tightly Sealed

It is important to make sure the container is tightly sealed before storing the starter in the fridge. A tight seal ensures that the starter remains fresh and prevents any air from entering the container. To ensure a tight seal, make sure that the lid is screwed on tightly and that there are no gaps around the edges of the lid.

Additionally, it is a good idea to check the seal periodically. If the seal is not tight, the starter could become contaminated or dry out. To check the seal, try to open the lid. If it is difficult to open, then the seal is probably tight enough.

Checking the Starter Every Few Days for Freshness

Once the starter is stored in the fridge, it should be checked every few days for freshness. This is important because the starter can go bad if it is not stored properly. To check the starter for freshness, look for any signs of discoloration or off-smells. If either of these is present, discard the starter and start a new batch.

It is also a good idea to taste the starter occasionally. This will help you determine if the starter is still viable. If the starter tastes sour and acidic, then it is still good. However, if it tastes bitter or rancid, then it has gone bad and should be discarded.

Conclusion

Storing sourdough starter in the fridge can be a tricky process. To ensure that the starter stays fresh and viable, it is important to transfer it to a glass jar, cover it with plastic wrap, feed it weekly, and store it in an airtight container. Additionally, it is important to measure the amount of starter to be stored and make sure the container is tightly sealed. Finally, it is a good idea to check the starter every few days for freshness.

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully store your sourdough starter in the fridge and enjoy delicious homemade sourdough breads!