October 11, 2020 - 3:34am
Changing from whole wheat to rye feeding a starter = a bad idea?
I've got a starter that's been fed whole wheat since I've had it (only 4 bakes). This morning I decided to feed it rye instead
It's not really responding very perkily. Plus it's rather cementlike. First time using rye so not sure if this is to be expected? Used same ratio as previously - equal parts water flour and old starter. I've added water to it to give it a better texture.
Do you think I've seriously annoyed it? Should I give it a whole wheat feed later in the day to ease it in to the change of diet?
tx!
First 4 bakes - how old is the starter.
Cement like - different flours require different amounts of water, rye tends to be on the thirsty side compared to ww or white. Regardless of flours used, go by consistency and maintain that.
Not responding as usual - different food, different behavior. I always recommend to work a different food in over a little time - for 2 reasons. Gives the bugs a little time to get used to the new eats, and gives you a little time to get used to the new eats as odds are very good there will be differences in behavior.
What to do, gradually increase the ratio of new food over about a week and go by feel for now as to consistency. Your can easily change that once things stabilize. Enjoy!