Common Sourdough Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Sourdough baking can be tricky, and even experienced bakers run into challenges. Here are some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. My Bread Didn’t Rise!

• Possible Cause: Inactive starter or under-fermented dough.

• Fix: Feed your starter regularly and allow for a full bulk fermentation.

2. My Crust is Too Hard or Thick

• Possible Cause: Baking without steam or overbaking.

• Fix: Use a Dutch oven to trap steam or spray water in the oven before baking.

3. My Loaf is Too Dense

• Possible Cause: Not enough gluten development.

• Fix: Use the stretch-and-fold technique to strengthen the dough.

4. My Bread is Too Sour or Not Sour Enough

• Possible Cause: Fermentation time affects sourness.

• Fix: For a more sour loaf, extend fermentation time; for a milder taste, shorten it.

Conclusion
Every sourdough baker experiences setbacks, but troubleshooting these issues will make you a better baker. Keep experimenting, and soon you’ll be creating perfect loaves every time!