June 2, 2015 - 9:09pm
Alternatives to the expensive proofing basket
I'm looking to add more proofing baskets to my baking tools. They are frightfully expensive. Has anyone had any real, consistant luck with a cheaper alternative? Something creative and out of the box?
Thanks
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When I was shopping for oval proofing baskets several months ago, the price ranged from $11-17 US per basket. Since I don't bake more than a couple of loaves at a time that require basket proofing (I find that I can do a lot of proofing of sourdough using a linen couche), I bought two wood pulp baskets that are made in Germany (bought them from Breadtopia). I went to a local fabric store and bought some white cotton oxford cloth and my neighbor made me some nice liners so that the baskets never get coated with flour (and this will presumably extend their life). The liners require a minimal amount of flour and moderately high hydration doughs just plop right out onto the peel when inverted with no sticking at all.
There are a number of posts about people using plastic collenders but new ones run about $7-9 US so their is a savings there. However, you probably will need a liner with plastic as flour won't adhere to the surface.
Hello
I purchase high quality German made cane baskets for around 14 dollars each. If you have to buy a dozen of them, it adds up, for two or three, the investment is not all to grand. With proper care one can reasonably expect a few decades of sevice out of them. Handing them down to the next generation is not unheard of. I've used cane proofing baskets in a busy commercial setting,(without liners) that had already seen thirty years of usage. There are of course bowls, colanders and utility baskets that are useable, however, I don't believe that you would regret investing in the long term. Well made cane baskets are simply a joy to use. One should take care though to select baskets of a suitable size, there is a clear tendency to purchace items that are too large. As an alternative to proofing baskets, I enjoy using bakers linen.
cheers
Check out luckyclovertrading.com. Under trays they have lined baskets and wicker bannetons. There is an $8 surcharge on orders under $50. I've bought about 100 baskets from them now and they are well worth the money ($3-$8).
If you already own a colander, you can line that with a dish towel sprinkled with flour or rice flour. No additional cost!
Ford
Excellent. I will look into all of these suggestions. Thanks, friends!
or a hat?
crochet one?
Easter basket sale...
Bird nest baskets?