FAQ About Traditional Artisan Bread in Cultural Identity

What is a sourdough starter and why is it important in artisan bread-making?

A sourdough starter is a mixture of flour and water that captures wild yeast and bacteria from the environment. It is crucial in artisan bread-making because it acts as a natural leavening agent, providing flavor and character that is distinctive to sourdough bread. The use of starters connects bakers to traditional methods and local microbial ecosystems.