Organic (Dried) Fruit & Yeast Water
Last week I bought some dried apricots [1] and tried to make yeast water with them. Five days later there was absolutely no activity and I even kept them at the recommended 85°F. No fermentation whatsoever. I gave up.
Yesterday I bought some organic dried apricots [2] and within 12 hours bubbles had formed around the fruit. Now it's almost 24 hours and more bubbles have appeared on top of the water. Holding it up to my ear and I can hear a slight fizz. Haven't even kept this one in my starter proofer (aka yoghurt maker) either and we have more activity within 24 hours than with the other dried apricots over five days. Which wasn't difficult as that was nil!
On the first packet it just said dried apricots but on the website, you'll notice, it isn't as innocent as that. The ingredients are...
Partially Rehydrated Dried Apricots (99%), Preservatives: Potassium Sorbate, Sulphur Dioxide.
This is what keeps them orange and apparently void of any natural goodness. The organic apricots have turned a dark colour due to the sugars and lack of preservatives and the difference is phenomenal.
Makes me wonder what we are eating. They do say if food can't spoil it isn't good for you.