Discovering the Art of Sourdough: A Delicious Workshop at Rockwell Brewery Riverside
If you’ve ever wanted to master the art of sourdough bread-making or simply learn the tricks and techniques behind this age-old culinary craft, the recent Sourdough 101 class at Rockwell Brewery Riverside was the perfect opportunity. Hosted on a sunny Sunday, this hands-on workshop attracted a diverse group of around a dozen eager participants from Frederick County and beyond, eager to roll up their sleeves and dive into the world of sourdough.
Guided by the knowledgeable instructors Kelly D’Atri and Jamie Freysz—professionals from The Garden at Creep Hill and BlueTruck Homestead, respectively—participants enjoyed an engaging exploration of the sourdough process. Right from understanding how to cultivate a healthy sourdough starter to the intricate skills of shaping loaves that are both visually appealing and delicious, the class offered valuable insights for beginners and seasoned bread-makers alike.
The Rise of Sourdough
Sourdough has made a significant comeback in recent years, particularly during the pandemic when many people gravitated towards baking as a soothing hobby. The appeal of sourdough lies not just in its tangy flavor but also in its health benefits; its fermentation process breaks down gluten, making it easier for many people to digest. Additionally, the lack of commercial yeast means that sourdough bread often boasts a longer shelf life and a more complex flavor profile.
Kelly and Jamie began the workshop with a warm introduction, discussing the origins of sourdough and its historical significance in various cultures. Bread has been a staple in human diets for thousands of years, and sourdough, in particular, represents a connection to traditional methods of baking that many have returned to in recent times.
Getting Hands-On
As the class progressed, the participants moved on to practical activities. Each attendee was given a starter, which is essentially a mix of flour and water that ferments to house a colony of wild yeast and bacteria. The instructors emphasized the importance of nurturing this starter, which requires regular feeding and care. The excitement was palpable as attendees learned how to check the starter’s readiness by conducting the “float test” – a simple but effective method to see if the starter is bubbly enough to leaven the bread.
Next up was the mixing and kneading of dough, where the real magic began. Using just a handful of ingredients—flour, water, salt, and their well-cared-for starter—participants learned how to create a basic sourdough dough. With hands dusted in flour, they engaged in the ancient ritual of kneading, transforming a simple mixture into a silky and elastic dough.
Shaping and Scoring
Once the dough had the right consistency, the class moved to shaping the loaves. Jamie and Kelly provided tips on how to form different styles, from round boules to elongated batards. The art of “scoring”—making cuts in the dough surface before baking—was another highlight, serving both aesthetic purposes and helping the dough expand as it bakes.
After shaping the loaves and placing them in baskets for proofing, participants anxiously awaited the next step: baking. With the ovens ready and heated, the moment every baker dreams of arrived. The instructor guided the group in preheating a Dutch oven—a popular choice for home bakers, as it creates a steamy environment akin to a professional bread oven.
The Culmination of Flavor
Ultimately, as the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked sourdough filled the space, everyone gathered around to witness the final results of their labor. The satisfaction on their faces was evident, not just from the delight of bread-baking, but from a newfound appreciation for a craft that involves patience, precision, and a little bit of love.
As participants shared slices of their crusty, golden-brown loaves, it became clear that the workshop was about more than just baking bread. It was a celebration of community, skill-sharing, and the joy of creating something from scratch. With each bite, they savored not just the flavors, but also the learning experience and the friendships forged during the class.
In conclusion, the Sourdough 101 workshop at Rockwell Brewery Riverside was not merely an event; it was a gathering of like-minded individuals passionate about bread-making. For those looking to expand their culinary repertoire or simply enjoy the therapeutic process of cooking, this workshop proved to be a delightful and enriching experience. So, if you’re a bread enthusiast or an aspiring baker looking to delve into the world of sourdough, keep an eye out for future classes—you won’t want to miss the chance to connect with fellow bakers and master this timeless craft!
