Sourdough is more than just bread—it’s a practice in patience, a reminder that good things take time, and a metaphor for life itself. Dr. Skattum has spent time perfecting her sourdough process, and along the way, she’s learned a few lessons that go far beyond the kitchen.
10 Things Sourdough Can Teach Us
It’s not all or nothing – Even 10 minutes can move things forward in a meaningful way. Progress happens in small steps.
Time is critical – Without it, nothing works. Some things just can’t be rushed.
Plan ahead – Good bread (and good outcomes) require thinking a few steps ahead.
You can have anything you want, but not everything – There’s only so much starter. Prioritize wisely.
Scoring and cutting matter – An outlet for steam and release is necessary, both in bread and in life.
Discard isn’t waste – It still has value. Get creative and make something new (like crackers!).
Sharing is caring – Make extra. There’s always enough to go around.
Carbs cure everything – Just make them worthy complex carbs. Fermented foods for the win.
It’s never too late – Even if left in the back of the fridge for too long, sourdough (and second chances) can be revived.
Trends don’t have deadlines – Jump on when you're ready. The bread (and life) will still be there.
The Simplified Sourdough Recipe
If you’ve been thinking about trying sourdough, here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
250g water
80g sourdough starter
350g flour
10g salt
Instructions:
Mix the water and starter together in a bowl.
Add the flour and mix until just combined. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
Add the salt and mix well.
Cover with plastic wrap and a towel, then begin folding:
Stretch and fold after 45 minutes.
Coil fold after another 45 minutes.
Coil fold one more time after another 45 minutes.
Let the dough rise on the counter for 12 hours (bulk fermentation).
Lightly flour a surface and place the dough on it. Stretch in all four directions, then fold and shape into a ball.
Place in a banneton basket, cover, and refrigerate for another 12 hours (cold ferment).
When ready to bake, flip onto parchment paper, shape, and score.
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Place the dough in a Dutch oven.
Reduce heat to 400°F and bake:
20 minutes covered
20 minutes uncovered
Let cool before slicing.
Sourdough and Slow Living
Sourdough reminds us that nourishment—whether for the body, mind, or soul—comes from intentionality and patience. It’s not about perfection but about progress, creativity, and care. Just like with health, small, consistent steps make all the difference.
So whether you’re trying your hand at baking or just looking for a little inspiration, remember: good things take time, but they’re always worth the wait.
Let’s keep rising together.
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