Proving your dough is an important process in all bread baking. Skipping this step will result in failed loaves, so here's what you need to know about alternative proofing and proofing basket ideas!
What is the exam?
EXAM it is the process of setting the dough aside to rise and rest. It is also an essential step in baking bread. This is the final rise of the dough before it goes into the oven.
As the dough rests and rises, the yeast in the dough begins to ferment and produce gases that cause the bread dough to rise. These gases create wonderful air pockets during baking.
What is a correction basket?
or sourdough proofing baskets or banneton is a round basket made to hold dough.
As the dough sits in the proofing basket for hours, the basket supports the dough and prevents it from spreading and spilling over the edges as it expands.
How to use a corrections basket
Before placing your shaped dough in the proofing basket, you should dust the top of the noodle, followed by the sides of the basket with rice flour to prevent sticking.
Do not use wheat flour as this will cause your dough to stick to the proofing basket.
The best shopping cart alternatives
Unless you're an avid baker, you're probably looking for a basket substitute for your fix. And while there ARE Affordable remedial baskets out there, spending money isn't always at the top of the list!
Here are some efficient proofing basket alternatives for proofing bread:
- bowl
- colander
- Heavy fabric
- Plastic containers
- Wicker basket
- Baking tray
- Wok
bowl
If you don't have a corrective basket for your sourdough bread, then you MUST have a bowl big enough to correct the sourdough.
A bowl will give your bread a nice rounded shape, and while you may want to create different shaped loaves, it's better than nothing!
Both plastic and ceramic bowls will do, although wooden and bamboo bowls would also work. Avoid using metal bowls, as the coldness of the bowl can compromise the fermentation process. Although if you must, then line the metal bowl with a clean cloth and put the dough inside.
colander
The best feature about this insulating basket alternative is the small holes.
The holes in the strainer promote good air flow so that the outer layer of dough dries out, promising a wonderfully crispy crust when baked.
Don't forget to line your colander with a soft floured cloth to prevent the dough from sticking.
Heavy fabric
If you are tired of round loaves and want to bake one baguette with sourdough instead, you can use a heavy duty emery cloth to protect your bread.
Sprinkle a generous dusting of flour before placing your dough on the heavy cloth. Create pleats or folds and hold in place with a pin.
Plastic containers
If you're after that nice oval-shaped loaf, then plastic containers might not be the best option for proofing your dough.
Normally, plastic containers are rectangular, so this can cause your bread to come out a bit misshapen.
However, it is no secret that containers I DO come in all shapes and sizes.
So if you happen to own a round bowl that is neither too big nor too small for the dough, add a little oil to prevent sticking or a floured towel to line the bowl.
Wicker basket
Wicker baskets are another great alternative to the remedial basket. They are especially amazing at adding a unique and wonderful pattern to your loaves.
Simply clean out your old wicker basket, making sure it's secure, then drop the sourdough into the basket.
Baking tray
If your utensils are busy doing other things, you can use a baking sheet to proof the dough. Just remember to use a pan with high sides so that the batter does not rise and spill over the edges.
Line your tray with some kitchen towels to create a makeshift one BED for your dough to rest. Cover the tray with a tea towel, dust it with some flour and add your batter.
Wok
A wok is perhaps the most unexpected basket option to make the list. But its domed bottom is what makes it so special. This will cradle your dough and support it until it rises.
Line the wok with a heavy linen cloth before dropping the batter into it.
Some debugging tips
If you're relatively new to the world of baking, here are some tips to help you proofread your bread dough to bake a wonderfully soft and airy loaf.
AVOID over insulationOR subisolation your dough!
Preparation basket for debugging
When using an insulating basket for the first time, it is important to prepare them to prevent the dough from sticking to its surface.
Spray your proofing basket with water, then add a cup of flour to it and spread it all over the basket, shaking off the excess.
Be sure not to use too much flour as this will spoil the look, texture and taste of the bread.
Spray water on the towel
If your towel is stuck to the dough, spray it with a little water. Try to gently remove the towel from the dough without damaging the bread dough.
Avoid mold
If you forget to wait for your insulating basket to dry after spraying with water and dusting with flour, the basket will become moldy.
As soon as you notice that your insulating basket has mold on it, place it in a 250 degree F oven for 30 minutes. The hot oven will kill the mold, allowing you to use the basket once more.
The perfect fix
For beautifully risen sourdough loaves, always use a proofing basket.
Unless you own a fancy proofing basket, anything that can hold the shape of your dough will do.
Make sure your dough doesn't stick to the proofing basket substitute, or you're going to have some problems!
Alternative Debugging Cart Options – FAQ
Are correction baskets necessary?
Although proofing baskets aren't a necessity, when it comes to proofing bread dough, you'll need a bowl or cloth to help shape your dough before you bake the bread.
Can I make my own shopping cart?
You can make your own makeshift proofing basket using anything you like, as long as it's strong enough to hold the shape of your dough.
Can I use a basket to proof the bread?
A metal or plastic strainer can be used as an alternative to the insulating basket. The smaller the proofing basket the better as this will prevent your batter from spreading.
