Spelt flour sourdough starter: is it worth the hype? find out here!
What To Know
- Creating a spelt flour sourdough starter is a straightforward process.
- The next day, discard half of the starter and feed it with 1/2 cup of spelt flour and 1/4 cup of lukewarm water.
- Here is a comparison of spelt flour sourdough starters and wheat flour sourdough starters.
Sourdough starters, the heart of many delicious bread recipes, are typically made with wheat flour. However, in recent years, there has been growing interest in using alternative flours, such as spelt flour, to create unique and flavorful sourdough starters. In this blog post, we delve into the world of spelt flour sourdough starters, exploring their benefits, challenges, and the steps involved in creating and maintaining them.
Benefits of Using Spelt Flour in Sourdough Starter
Spelt flour, an ancient grain, offers several advantages when used in sourdough starters:
- High Fiber Content: Spelt flour is rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
- Nutrient-Dense: It contains an impressive array of nutrients, including protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
- Unique Flavor: Spelt flour imparts a slightly nutty and earthy flavor to sourdough bread, adding depth and complexity.
- May Be More Tolerable: For individuals with wheat sensitivities, spelt flour can often be a more tolerable alternative.
Challenges of Using Spelt Flour in Sourdough Starter
While spelt flour offers many benefits, it also presents a few challenges:
- Lower Gluten Content: Spelt flour has a lower gluten content than wheat flour, which can make sourdough bread less elastic and chewy.
- Longer Fermentation Time: Due to its lower gluten content, spelt flour sourdough starters may require a longer fermentation time to develop sufficient acidity and flavor.
- Sour Taste: Spelt flour can produce a slightly sourer sourdough starter than wheat flour, which may not be preferred by all.
Steps to Create a Spelt Flour Sourdough Starter
Creating a spelt flour sourdough starter is a straightforward process:
1. Gather Ingredients: You will need 1 cup of spelt flour, 1/2 cup of lukewarm water, and a clean glass jar.
2. Mix Ingredients: In the jar, combine the spelt flour and water until a thick paste forms.
3. Cover and Let Rest: Cover the jar loosely with a lid or cheesecloth and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Feed the Starter: The next day, discard half of the starter and feed it with 1/2 cup of spelt flour and 1/4 cup of lukewarm water. Mix well and cover again.
5. Repeat Feeding: Continue feeding the starter daily, discarding half and adding fresh flour and water.
6. Test the Starter: After 5-7 days, test the starter by mixing 1 tablespoon of starter with 1/4 cup of water. If it floats, your starter is ready to use.
Maintaining a Spelt Flour Sourdough Starter
Once your starter is active, it is essential to maintain it properly:
- Regular Feeding: Feed your starter at least once a week with equal parts spelt flour and lukewarm water.
- Store Properly: Keep your starter in the refrigerator between feedings.
- Refresh Before Use: Before using your starter for baking, refresh it by feeding it and letting it sit at room temperature for 8-12 hours.
Baking with a Spelt Flour Sourdough Starter
Spelt flour sourdough starter can be used in a variety of bread recipes. Here are some tips:
- Adjust Hydration: Due to the lower gluten content of spelt flour, you may need to increase the hydration of your dough slightly.
- Lengthen Fermentation: Spelt flour bread doughs may need a longer fermentation time to develop their full flavor and texture.
- Expect a Sourer Taste: Spelt flour sourdough bread typically has a slightly sourer taste than wheat flour bread.
Spelt Flour Sourdough Starter Vs. Wheat Flour Sourdough Starter
Here is a comparison of spelt flour sourdough starters and wheat flour sourdough starters:
| Feature | Spelt Flour Sourdough Starter | Wheat Flour Sourdough Starter |
| — | — | — |
| Gluten Content | Lower | Higher |
| Fermentation Time | Longer | Shorter |
| Flavor | Nutty, earthy, slightly sour | Mild, slightly sweet |
| Nutritional Value | Higher in fiber and nutrients | Lower in fiber and nutrients |
| Suitability for Individuals with Wheat Sensitivities | May be more tolerable | Not suitable |
Answers to Your Questions
Q: How long does it take to create a spelt flour sourdough starter?
A: It typically takes 5-7 days to create an active spelt flour sourdough starter.
Q: Can I use a spelt flour sourdough starter to make other types of bread besides sourdough?
A: Yes, you can use a spelt flour sourdough starter to make other types of bread, such as focaccia, pizza crust, and whole wheat bread.
Q: How do I store a spelt flour sourdough starter?
A: Store your spelt flour sourdough starter in the refrigerator between feedings. It can be kept for up to 2 weeks before needing to be refreshed.
Q: Why is my spelt flour sourdough starter not bubbling?
A: If your spelt flour sourdough starter is not bubbling, it may not be active. Try feeding it more regularly or increasing the temperature at which you are storing it.
Q: Can I use a spelt flour sourdough starter to make gluten-free bread?
A: No, spelt flour is not gluten-free. Therefore, a spelt flour sourdough starter cannot be used to make gluten-free bread.
