Existential Struggle Sourdough Loaf

Source : Rustic Sourdough Bread

Sourdough Struggle

Sourdough bread has long been prized for its unique flavor and complex fermentation process, but in recent years, it has become more than just a tasty treat. For many, the act of caring for a sourdough starter and turning it into a loaf of bread has become a meditative practice and a way to connect with the natural world. But for others, it has become an all-consuming obsession and a source of existential crisis.

As the world around us becomes increasingly chaotic and unpredictable, the act of nurturing a sourdough starter and watching it grow and change can provide a sense of control and stability. But for some, this obsession with sourdough bread can spiral out of control, leading to feelings of anxiety and inadequacy.

For these individuals, the pursuit of the perfect sourdough loaf becomes a never-ending quest, one that consumes their thoughts and actions. They obsess over the temperature and humidity of their kitchen, the hydration levels of their dough, and the length of their proofing time. They spend hours scouring the internet for the latest sourdough techniques and tips, and they experiment with different flours, grains, and starters in search of the perfect flavor and texture.

But despite their best efforts, their sourdough loaves never quite turn out the way they want them to. They are plagued by under-proofed bread, or bread that is too dense, or bread that doesn't have the right flavor. And in their quest for perfection, they lose sight of the simple joy of baking bread and sharing it with others.

For some, the sourdough obsession becomes a source of frustration and disappointment. They compare their own loaves to the perfectly crafted creations of others on social media and feel inadequate. They feel like they are failing at something that should be simple and satisfying, and they start to question their own abilities and worth.

In the worst cases, the sourdough obsession can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection. As individuals become more and more focused on their sourdough bread, they may start to neglect other areas of their life, such as relationships and personal hobbies. They may withdraw from social interactions and become isolated, leading to feelings of loneliness and depression.

While sourdough bread can be a wonderful and fulfilling hobby, it is important to remember that it is just that: a hobby. It is not a measure of your worth as a person, and it is not worth sacrificing your mental health and well-being over. So the next time you are tempted to toss out a batch of under-proofed bread or compare your sourdough loaves to those of others, take a step back and remember that the joy of sourdough bread lies in the process, not the end result.

Directions

1. Weigh your flour; or measure it by gently spooning it into a cup, then sweeping off any excess. Combine all of the ingredients, kneading to form a smooth dough.
2. Allow the dough to rise, in a lightly greased, covered bowl, until it's doubled in size, about 90 minutes.
3. Gently divide the dough in half; it'll deflate somewhat. Preshape each piece of dough by pulling the edges into the center, turning it over so the seam is on the bottom, and rolling under your cupped hands to form a ball. Let the dough rest, covered, for 15 minutes.
4. To make fat oval loaves, elongate each ball of dough you've preshaped by gently rolling it back and forth on an unfloured work surface several times. For longer loaves, continue rolling until they're about 10" to 11" long.
5. Place the loaves on a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise until very puffy, about 1 hour. Towards the end of the rising time, preheat the oven to 425°F.
6. Spray the loaves with lukewarm water and dust generously with flour.
7. Make two fairly deep diagonal slashes in each; a serrated bread knife wielded firmly or a lame, works well here.
8. Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes, until it's a very deep golden brown. Remove it from the oven, and cool on a rack.