Hit 100 loaves of sourdough and finally got a crumb that didn't look like a sponge

So I've been keeping track in a notebook since January, and last weekend I baked my 100th loaf. The first 50 or so were total disasters - dense, gummy, or just flat. But finally on number 97 I got this open crumb with big bubbles and a nice ear. My husband didn't get why I was taking photos of bread, but it felt like a real win. Has anyone else kept count of their bakes and noticed a turning point?

2 comments

2 Comments

linda_dixon491d ago

I mean, "loaf 45" seems a bit off since you said it was number 97 that finally clicked.

wren6381d ago

Oh man, that notebook idea is genius and I totally get your husband's confusion (mine still can't tell the difference between an open crumb and a brick, honestly.) I started marking my bakes on a calendar after loaf three was so dense I could have used it as a doorstop, and I'd say it was around loaf 45 when everything suddenly clicked for me too. That feeling when you cut into it and see actual holes and a nice spring is just pure gold, congrats on hitting your 100th.