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Quick Sourdough Starter

This is a quick way to start a sourdough starter and is particularly useful for Amish friendship bread. Instead of relying on the wild yeast and bacteria that are naturally present in the air, it swaps in a commercial yeast. Because the commercial strains are very vigorous, it is unlikely that wild yeast will supplant them. This makes enough for two starters, so you can use it all yourself, or you can share it with a friend.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 small package (0.25 ounces / 7 grams) instant dry yeast
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Method

  1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
  2. Cover the bowl and place in a warm place (~70–80 °F / 20–27 °C). It should begin making some small bubbles within an hour or two (the timing depends mainly on how cold the milk is).
  3. Proceed as directed for "Day 1" of your sourdough recipe.

Equipment

  • A bowl or other container, at least 1 quart (1 liter) in size. It should be made of a non-reactive material, such as plastic, glass, or stainless steel (but not copper, cast iron, etc.)
  • Spoon or whisk for stirring
  • Lid or plate to cover the bowl

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