Hello From Canada (1st Bread Too)
I just wanted to say hello, and mention what a great site this is (as everyone else knows). Also, the quality of content on here is superb, with more hints and recipes, etc, than I can use for a loaf of bread.
After recently travelling in France on my bicycle and eating a baguette a day, sometimes two a day, I was inspired to learn to make bread a more 'traditional' way, rather than with a bread machine. So now that I'm back in Canada, and in between jobs, I thought it would be the perfect time to start.
Below is a picture from the first dough that I have ever made at home (have worked in kitchens where dough/pastry was required). Since I don't like taking small steps and learning the basics first, I decided my first hurdle would be to make a 100% hydrated starter and use it in a Pseudo- Norwich Sourdough (thank you wildyeastblog.com). I figured I could always cover up the mistake if it didn't work (ie. throw it out), so it was worth a shot. Well, after a couple weeks of having said starter going I decided it was time for it to be used. The result being: (I know it is small, but that's because it would be easier to hide the evidence if it didn't work)
I'm fit to be criticized, so don't worry.