Cannot Get My Starter to Start
I have prepared my starter from Chad Robertson's Tartine Book three times. Twice it grew mold. Once it never grew anything for almost a week. I am using the exact recipe and clean utensils. What am I doing wrong?
Update/Comment on Oct 1: I used brand new bread flour and wheat flour 100 grams. I live in Tennessee so it is humid. I used tap water. Should I use bottled? Had a cloth lid.
Best Answer
To me it sounds like a temperature and humidity issue. I have experienced this when I have tried to begin a new batch of starter and it is both above 80 degrees and over 90% humidity. I suggest that you feed your "baby" starter every 3 days. If you have an environment that is more ideal 75 degrees and under 50% humidity you should have better luck.
I agree with FuzzyChef in that flour does matter. I personally use Guistos Ultimate Performance flour. I know this will sound like cheating and the purists will probably tear me a new one but if you still have issues to get your starter to "kick", then I suggest to get your hands on and add a very small qty of fresh or instant yeast to kick start you starter.
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What would cause a starter to not turn over?
A blown fuse in the starter circuit could be the cause of a no-start problem. Broken or corroded wiring \u2013 Damaged or dirty wires to the battery or to the starter solenoid (or wires that are loose) can prevent sufficient power from reaching the starter.Starter Issues??? Simple trick to get your vehicle started and get Home!
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