My Bread-Making Journey

Toast
Squid on 12 Mar 2007 at 08:27

I figured I'd start this blog to track my bread-making and encourage constructive criticism so that I can improve my bread-making skills. Feedback is welcome.

Sorry, I posted this elsewhere before realizing I should start a blog. This is my 5th attempt at bread-making. My first sourdough bread, cultivated a la Nancy Silverton's instructions using grapes. It had a definite sour taste, but I don't have any personal experiece to compare it to (other that what I've bought). My next attempt will be with SourdoLady's starter and I also have an Italian starter to which I can really compare my homemade starters.

When you say sheen I take it to mean the shine on... or is it in...the crumb around the holes. I love to see that in the photos of the bread on this site. And in my bread sometimes. Something about that tells me the bread will be extra tasty. What makes that appealing sheen and how do I get it all the time in my bread? Thanks. weavershouse
I'm so new at this that I didn't realize that sheen was a good thing. That's why I ask for critiques. LOL Is the sheen a result of a higher hydration dough?

Hello-

I just joined as well and realized I have to start a blog too.

Your first attempt looks yummy! Did you steam the oven to get that crust?

I just made my first sourdough this weekend also (my 6th or 7th bread ever) - I will try and get a photo of it up and start a blog. I have been looking for a site like this to help me embark on bread baking perfection - although I think that is a long way off!

 

Hi Tigressbakes:

It's nice to meet another newbie! To answer your question.... yes, I put water in a pan as well as spraying the oven with water.

I was quite happy that my starter worked the first time. I was certain that it wasn't going to work. It looks like we have about the same amount of experience. We all have to start from the beginning.

I'm going to a Sourdough course on Sunday at King Arthur Flour, weather permitting. I can hardly wait, except that I have a 9 1/2 hour drive each way. Oh well, it'll be worth it.

I think I am only about 2 hours away from KAF - I would love to take a course there. Let me know if you think it is worth it.

Yes I was also quite amazed that my starter worked also. I will try and post a pic later today.

Ack, it looks like the weather won't cooperate. They're calling for rain/snow with temps right around freezing so I don't want to chance icy roads. I'll have to wait until their spring schedule comes out. How disappointing.