A tool designed for baking assists in determining the precise proportions of flour and water needed to maintain or expand a sourdough culture. For instance, a baker might use this tool to determine the amounts needed to feed a small starter for daily baking or to scale it up for a large batch of bread. This ensures consistent starter activity and predictable leavening power.
Maintaining a healthy and active sourdough culture relies heavily on the correct balance of ingredients. Historically, bakers relied on experience and intuition to manage their starters. A contemporary approach utilizes precise measurement, enabling consistent results and reducing waste. Precise feeding ratios are particularly important for achieving predictable rise and flavor profiles in sourdough bread.