Essential Tools for Baking Sourdough

Baking sourdough bread can be a rewarding experience filled with delicious aromas and flavors. Each loaf you create helps you understand the process of fermentation, kneading, and baking. However, before you begin, it's essential to gather the right tools. Here's a closer look at what you'll need before you get started.

Here is the short list (and links) of the items you will need if you're like me and prefer to skip to the point! Below this list you'll find a more detailed description of each tool and why it's needed for the sourdough process.

Thermometer

Sourdough Starter Jar

Baking Kit (complete with bannetons, lame, danish whisk, bench scraper)

Seed Warming Mat

Kitchen Scale

Linen Bread Cloths

Bowl Covers

Large Glass Bowl

Dutch Oven

Below you will find a description on how each of these tools are needed and used during the sourdough process.

A Kitchen Scale

Precision is key in baking, especially for sourdough. A kitchen scale that measures in both grams is crucial. You'll need a scale that features a tare function and an easy-to-read display. This amazon basics is the one I use, if you prefer one with a cuter aesthetic I recommend this one.

Using a scale ensures you accurately measure flour and water, which is vital for consistency. My sourdough recipe calls for a starter, flour-to-water ratio of 1:1:1. If you mistakenly use too much water, your dough may become overly sticky, while too little can lead to a dry loaf. Accurate measurements can help prevent such problems ensuring a better baking outcome.

Large Mixing Bowl

A large mixing bowl is your workspace for combining flour, water, and starter. The size of the bowl should accommodate your dough as it rises. Opt for glass, as it's durable, easy to clean and you can see your dough during the bulk fermentation process.

A good quality bowl allows you to mix without making a mess and gives you enough space to work efficiently. I use these glass bowls, they are great and just the right size for a double batch. My preference is clear glass because you can see the dough transform during the bulk fermentation process, but ceramic is also just fine. I would stay away from stainless steel only because it's super lightweight and your dough will lift it up during the stretch and fold process.

Quality Jar for Your Starter

Your sourdough starter is foundation for successful bread-making. A good-quality, clear jar lets you observe the bubbles and activity inside. The Weck jar is by far my favorite and a very popular choice for many bakers due to its tight seal and attractive design. My favorite part is it's all glass (including the lid) and after using a bunch of different jars it's the easiest to clean.

A clear jar also allows you to monitor your starter's growth. Ideally, choose one with a wide mouth (not curved like a classic mason jar), making it easy to feed your starter regularly. Here is another good option.

A 5-Quart Dutch Oven

A 5-quart Dutch oven to bake your bread in. This tool provides even heating and traps steam, essential for achieving that spacious crust. Using a dark-colored pot conceals the dark marks left by using a high temperature. If you have Le Creuset I suggest to not use it!

Baking your sourdough at 450°F for 30 minutes in a preheated Dutch oven can help develop a lovely golden-brown crust. If you don’t already own a Dutch oven, consider adding one to your kitchen. Amazon has some great ones like this that are reasonably priced and you can always find one at your local HomeGoods or Marshalls.

I do recommend getting a dark color because it will better hide the discoloration the high baking temperature leaves behind. I also recommend to not use a super expensive brand like Le Creuset due to the discoloration that happens to the dutch oven. You can clean it but it's very challenging to get it looking like new again.

A Lame: Your Scoring Razor

A lame, or scoring tool, is essential for creating beautiful patterns on your loaves while allowing them to expand during baking. As a new sourdough baker, a well-scored loaf will look professionally made!

Banneton Baskets

Banneton baskets help provide structure to your dough while it proofs. A natural rattan banneton is ideal as it wicks away moisture and aids in achieving a crisp crust. You can purchase on it's own here or as part of a sourdough kit.

Linen Basket Liners

To enhance your baking experience further, consider getting linen basket liners. These liners create a non-stick environment, allowing your dough to easily release from the banneton.

Linen is also absorbent, which helps control the moisture around your dough, improving the proofing process. Moreover, they are washable and reusable, the ones I use can be found here.

Thermometer and Seed Mat

Temperature plays a really large role in how your bread turns out. During the dough making process your ideal dough temperature is around 75 degrees. My house is usually 70 degrees no matter what time of year so I use a seed warming mat to help regulate and maintain a controlled dough temperature. Also a thermometer is essential to make sure your water is at the right temp (between 80 and 90 degrees) when you're mixing it into your dough. The starter needs and likes a warm environment and having these two tools was really a game changer in how my bread turns out.

Danish Dough Wisk

Investing in a Danish dough whisk simplifies your mixing. This tool features a long handle with a wire head designed for easily incorporating your starter into the dough. It's also great to use to mix any batter, like pancakes, brownies, cake batter and so on.

The unique design allows for efficient mixing without overworking the gluten, which is essential for creating the right texture in sourdough. It's especially helpful when dealing with sticky dough, reducing messes in the mixing process. The too often are included in a sourdough kit or you can purchase them separately here.

A Complete Set

Feeling overwhelmed by the tools needed? Many of them come in sets that make purchasing simpler and often more affordable. Opting for a complete sourdough baking kit can save you time and ensure you have all the essentials.

This is the set I have, if you decide to purchase it I also recommend getting the kitchen scale, dough covers, linen cloths and thermometer since they are not included.

Your Sourdough Journey Awaits!

Starting your sourdough baking adventure without the right equipment can lead to challenges. With these essential tools in your kitchen, you will be set up for success. Happy baking!