Sourdough September is more than just a month-long campaign; it's a celebration of the timeless art of sourdough baking. This initiative, part of the Real Bread Campaign, aims to highlight the unique qualities of sourdough bread, from its rich flavor and chewy texture to the slow fermentation process that gives it its distinctive character.
Why Sourdough?
Sourdough bread is a testament to the beauty of patience and tradition. It's crafted using a natural starter, which is nurtured and fed over time, resulting in a bread that is not only delicious but also healthier and more sustainable.
Key Benefits of Sourdough Bread:
- Improved digestion: The natural fermentation process in sourdough bread breaks down complex carbohydrates, making them easier to digest.
- Nutrient-rich: Sourdough bread often contains higher levels of vitamins and minerals than commercially produced breads.
- Better flavor: The slow fermentation process allows for the development of complex flavors and a more satisfying texture.
- Sustainability: Our sourdough bread is made with locally sourced. organic ingredients, which supports small-scale bakeries like Abigail's Oven.
A Brief History of Sourdough
The history of sourdough bread dates back thousands of years, predating the use of commercial yeast. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Greeks, used sourdough starters to create their bread. However, the rise of commercial yeasts in the 20th century led to a decline in sourdough baking.
The Sourdough Revival
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in sourdough bread. Thanks to social media and popular baking shows, people are rediscovering the joys of baking their own sourdough bread at home. Sourdough September is a celebration of this revival and a reminder of the importance of supporting local bakeries that continue to produce authentic sourdough bread.
How to Celebrate Sourdough September
There are many ways to celebrate Sourdough September. Here are a few ideas:
- Bake your own sourdough bread: Try a sourdough recipe from a cookbook or take an online class from our chief baker, Martha Levie.
-
Visit our bakery: Support your local sourdough baker and try some of our delicious creations. We are open weekdays you can always drop by The Store at the Bakery: Mon 12:00 PM-5:00 PM, Tue 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, and Wed-Fri 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, at 421 South 200 East in Spanish Fork, Utah.
And remember, if you are looking for a place to get Abigail's Oven’s delicious sourdough bread, we are in more than 30 stores throughout Utah, at Farmers Markets in Ogden, SLC Downtown, Murray, So Jordan, Draper, Daybreak, Provo, Sandy, Spanish Fork, and Wheeler Farm.
- Learn about the history of sourdough: Read books or watch documentaries about the history and traditions of sourdough baking.
- Experiment with different sourdough recipes: Try making sourdough pancakes, waffles, or pizza crust.
Conclusion
Sourdough September is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the unique qualities of sourdough bread and to support the tradition of sourdough baking. By choosing sourdough bread and supporting local bakeries, you can contribute to a more sustainable and flavorful food system.
_______________
Author: Darryl Alder lives with his wife in Riverside Lodge, (which is what they call their home), along the Provo River in Utah. He is a retired career Scouter and outdoorsman who spent many hours over a campfire using a Dutch oven and loves sharing recipes for the kitchen and the campfire alike. You'll find many of his recipes on this blog and can follow him on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter.