No one likes the sound of anything that might smell like vomit, let alone the start of sourdough! if you ARE wondering if the beginning of sourdough should smell like vomit, then the short answer is yes. Your newbie will smell like a variety of things, though it's best to get to know them before you go into a frenzy! Here's why sourdough starter smells like vomit and stuff, and what you can do!
Table of Contents
What is the fluid floating on my engine?
If you notice some fluid floating on top of your engine, then it simply means that the engine is hungry. The beginner creates one hook when it runs out of food, and it can be a variety of colors.
My starter smells weird, should I do something?
Your sourdough starter will give off a variety of aromas throughout its life. This is often because new bacteria have developed within the starter. These new bacteria will produce unpleasant smells like vomit, cheese, sour milk and apples. These odors indicate a very young and unsustainable sourdough starter that requires frequent feedings.
Moving your motor to a clean jar and improving the feeding schedule will solve this problem in no time.
If you find that there is still no difference, then consider increasing the feeding to twice a day. Include rye flour or whole wheat flour in the beginning, or switch your flour to a different type entirely, as the flavor may be due to the amino acids in the flour.
The sourdough starter smells like vomit
It is very normal for your new sourdough starter to smell strange during the first 14 days. After 14 days of regular feedings, these odors will slowly disappear and you will have a great smelling starter.
Sourdough starter smells like sour milk
Sourdough starter contains wild yeasts and organic bacteria, which undergo lacto-fermentation, creating lactic acid. This process is exactly the same with sour milk, cheese and yogurt.
Odors are completely normal for starters and with regular feedings, the unwanted bacteria will disappear and the wonderful smell of sourdough starters will take over.
What to do if my starter smells like cheese
If your sourdough starter smells a lot like cheese, it's because lacto fermentation which often occurs during sourdough fermentation, as organic bacteria create lactic acid. The smell is a sign that the dough is very young and does not need to be fed for a long time.
Why isn't my dough starter rising?
Often sourdough starters start out well and then fall off a bit between days 3-7. Although worrying, this is not a bad thing and is normally an indication that the good bacteria are taking a little longer to take over.
With patience, you will be able to see and catch your initial bloom. If you're particularly concerned, you can always stir your engine between meals to boost the oxygen levels in the starter. This will help the development of good bacteria and yeast.
What happens if I miss a feed?
It is important to feed your starter at regular intervals, whether it is 8 or 12 hours, consistency is very important.
If it happens to you lose a feed of dough, do not be afraid. Just toss as usual and feed the starter.
Sourdough starter smells
Your sourdough starter will undergo many changes throughout its life. The important thing is not to give up when faced with challenging winds, because chances are there is always a logical explanation behind it!
Frequently asked questions
How do you know if your sourdough starter is spoiled?
Common signs of a spoiled sourdough starter include visible signs of mold or an orange/pink tint.
What should sourdough starter smell like?
Your starter should smell fresh, fruity and yeasty.
Why does my Sourdough Starter smell like sour milk?
If your starter has a very strong smell of sour milk, then this may mean that your starter is very hungry.
What does it mean if my sourdough starter smells like cheese?
If your starter has a cheesy smell, then it is due to the lacto-fermentation that occurs during the fermentation process.
