I personally love sourdough bread over traditional bread for several reasons such as the unique tangy flavor, the longer shelf life, and healthier benefit of including more vitamins and minerals than regular bread. Many people I know feel the same about this and and often ask me if it is better to make sourdough bread using a store bought starter or homemade starter?
Both bought and homemade sourdough starters can be used to make delicious sourdough bread, and which one is preferred depends on personal preferences and circumstances.
Bought sourdough starters are a good option for those who are new to sourdough baking or who don't have the time or inclination to make their own starter. They are often reliable and can produce consistent results. Additionally, some people prefer to use a specific type of starter for their bread, such as a San Francisco or French sourdough starter, which may be easier to obtain through a purchase.
On the other hand, making your own sourdough starter can be a rewarding experience and allow for more control over the fermentation process. Homemade starters are also unique to the environment in which they are made, which can contribute to the flavor and character of the resulting bread. Additionally, making your own starter can be a more cost-effective option in the long run, as you can continue to use it for years to come.
Ultimately, whether to use a bought or homemade sourdough starter depends on personal preference and circumstances. If you are new to sourdough baking or don't have the time or inclination to make your own starter, a bought starter may be a good option. However, if you enjoy the process of creating your own starter and want more control over the fermentation process, making your own starter may be the way to go.
Happy Baking!