How long can sourdough starter last in the fridge without feeding?

In my experience, several weeks is completely fine. A couple of months is usually still salvageable as long as there’s no mold or off smell.

What does bad sourdough starter smell like?

If it smells putrid, meaty, or just plain rotten, trust your instincts. That’s beyond the normal “hungry starter” smell and it’s time to toss it.

Can I revive a starter that’s been sitting for six months or more?

Usually, yes. It might take a few steady feedings, but I’ve saved starters that were neglected even longer than that.

What flour works best for reviving an old starter?

All-purpose works just fine, but if it’s sluggish, give it a boost by feeding it a little whole wheat or rye. They wake it up when it’s struggling.

Should I stir in the hooch or pour it off?

Either works. Stirring it in gives a sourer flavor. Pouring it off gives your starter a cleaner taste and smell. I pour mine off when reviving.

Homemade Baking & Bread

From everyday loaves to sourdough and special bakes, this tag covers practical bread baking and homemade baked goods without overcomplicating the process.

In the Kitchen

How to Revive a Neglected Sourdough Starter (Even After Months)
In the Kitchen

How to Make Authentic Irish Soda Bread from Scratch
In the Kitchen

Unleash Your Inner Baker: The Ultimate White Bread Recipe
In the Kitchen

Delicious Gingerbread Pancakes with Molasses from Scratch [Recipe]
In the Kitchen

How to Make Delicious Homemade Potato Bread from Scratch
In the Kitchen

Simply Sourdough: The Ultimate Recipe Roundup
In the Kitchen

A Recipe for Healthy Flax Seed Crackers in the Dehydrator
In the Kitchen

Oven Crepes Recipes & Maple Cream Cheese Filling
In the Kitchen

12 Bread Baking Tips & Tricks for Perfect Homemade Loaves

Homemade Baking & Bread

How to Revive a Neglected Sourdough Starter (Even After Months)

How to Make Authentic Irish Soda Bread from Scratch

Unleash Your Inner Baker: The Ultimate White Bread Recipe

Delicious Gingerbread Pancakes with Molasses from Scratch [Recipe]

How to Make Delicious Homemade Potato Bread from Scratch

Simply Sourdough: The Ultimate Recipe Roundup

A Recipe for Healthy Flax Seed Crackers in the Dehydrator

Oven Crepes Recipes & Maple Cream Cheese Filling

12 Bread Baking Tips & Tricks for Perfect Homemade Loaves

Become Self-Sufficient

Get Cooking — Yum!

Transform Your Green Thumb

Add Some Animals