18 hours ago, ElsieD said:I recently purchased dried lievito madre. Does anyone know how to use it? I expected that it would come with directions but it did not. I want to make pinsa.
Here are instructions for another brand of the same product. This is a starter culture for making “sourdough starter”, it’s not used directly from the packet like regular dry yeast.
Activation Instructions
Initial Mixing:
In a clean glass or plastic container, combine:
1 tablespoon of the dry Lievito Madre starter
50 grams (3 ½ tablespoons) of lukewarm water (around 86°F / 30°C)
50 grams (⅓ cup + 1 teaspoon) of unbleached all-purpose or bread flour
Stir thoroughly until a smooth, lump-free batter forms.
Ferment:
Cover the container loosely with a lid or cloth to allow airflow.
Place it in a warm, draft-free area (ideally between 75–80°F / 24–27°C).
Let it ferment for 24 hours.
Feeding Schedule:
After 24 hours, discard half of the starter.
Feed the remaining starter with:
50 grams (3 ½ tablespoons) of lukewarm water
50 grams (⅓ cup + 1 teaspoon) of flour
Mix well and return it to the warm spot.
Repeat this feeding every 24 hours for 5–7 days.Monitoring Activity:
Watch for bubbles, a rise in volume, and a pleasantly sour but mild aroma.
By day 5 or 6, your starter should double in size within 4–6 hours of feeding—ready for baking!
Using Your Lievito Madre Once active and bubbly:
In Recipes: Replace commercial yeast with your Lievito Madre in breads, pizzas, focaccias, etc. Note: this starter is usually firmer and less hydrated, so recipes may need slight hydration adjustments.
Flavor: Expect a mild, slightly sweet flavor, typical of traditional Italian sourdough.
Storage & Maintenance
Short-Term: Keep at room temperature and feed it daily.
Long-Term: Refrigerate and feed once a week. Before baking, bring to room temperature and give 1–2 feedings to revive activity.
Tips for Success
Flour: Use high-quality all-purpose or bread flour.
Water: Filtered or dechlorinated water helps prevent inhibition.
Consistency: Feed on a regular schedule to keep it happy and strong.
