I finally had to choose between a sourdough starter and commercial yeast for a big catering job

The order was for 200 sourdough rolls in two days. I could try to push my starter to double fast with extra feedings, or just buy a packet of instant yeast and get a more reliable rise. I went with the starter, feeding it every 4 hours with rye flour. The flavor was amazing, but I was up all night watching it. Has anyone else risked a starter on a tight deadline?

2 comments

2 Comments

noahcampbell2d agoMost Upvoted

My friend's bakery almost lost a contract over a sleepy starter.

joelsanchez2d ago

Totally get that all-night starter watch. Did something similar for a friend's wedding last fall. Had to make 150 loaves and my starter was being lazy. Spent two days feeding it like crazy, basically living in the kitchen. The flavor is always worth it but man, the stress is real. You feel like a mad scientist babysitting a jar.