The Fresh Loaf

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Sourdough Starter smell isn't right

faithc's picture
faithc

Sourdough Starter smell isn't right

I've recently got into the sourdough scene, and defintley have gone through some trial and error. I have two starters and both are almost identical. They are very active and always rise. I've made four successful loaves so far. My problem is that the loaves were great but not sour, even after proofing in fridge overnight. So I've come to the conclusion that my starter may be the problem. It smells like flour. No vinegary smell or even fruity smell. I'm wondering if maybe I've over-diluted my starter? It never has had hooch form so is it possible that not being able to mix in the alcohol is taking away that sour flavor?

Mini Oven's picture
Mini Oven

to still be sourdough.  How does the starter taste as it progresses from fed to peak?

jcope's picture
jcope

My starter has various smells depending how attentive I've been and the conditions it's kept in.  Also my bread is never sour.  It leavens really well and tastes pretty good.  When i started out it didnt take me long to realize the "sour" in sourdough is a bit misleading.

Mini Oven's picture
Mini Oven

More detailed information is needed about the starter, feeds, temps, etc. to determine if overfeeding is actually happening.  If the starter tastes like wet flour just before feeding, then you may be right.  Do spit out after tasting.

One thing you can do to test your theory is to just let part of the starter ferment long enough to smell sour and then start to feed it again when it has "changed."  Depending on temperature, it may take days to ferment and will be much like starting a new starter.  Which you could do instead, or at the same time, now that you're familiar with the waiting game.  

As long as the starter is raising loaves on its own and tasting great, enjoy it!   Oh and dry some of the starter for back up and to have some later on when you want to bake with a less sour starter.  Also record the maintenance of this starter for future references.