Gluten Free Sourdough Starter

This gluten free sourdough starter uses simple gluten-free flour and water to create a bubbly, tangy fermentation starter perfect for breads, pancakes, waffles, and more. With a daily feeding routine and beginner-friendly method, this homemade starter grows naturally over about 7 days.

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Course: bread

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 10

Resting time: 7

Total Time: 7 10

Servings: starter jar

Calories: 15kcal

Author: Lucy

Cost: $3

Equipment

wide-mouth glass jar At least 16 ounces
kitchen scale
non-reactive spoon
silicone spatula
rubber band For tracking starter rise
clean cloth or loose lid

Ingredients

30 g brown rice flour
30 g filtered water
30 g sorghum flour (optional for feedings)
30 g buckwheat flour (optional for feedings)

Instructions

On day 1, combine 30 grams gluten-free flour and 30 grams filtered water in a clean glass jar. Stir until smooth and no dry flour remains.
Scrape down the sides of the jar, cover loosely with a cloth or lid, and place the jar in a warm spot between 70°F and 78°F.
Mark the starter level with a rubber band so you can monitor any rise or activity.
On days 2 through 4, discard half of the starter each day and feed it with 30 grams gluten-free flour and 30 grams filtered water.
Stir thoroughly after each feeding until the mixture resembles thick pancake batter.
From days 5 to 7, continue feeding every 12 to 24 hours as bubbles increase and the aroma becomes pleasantly tangy.
Watch for bubbles, visible rise, and a mildly sour smell. The starter is ready when it becomes active within 4 to 8 hours after feeding.
For baking, feed the starter twice before use to strengthen activity and improve fermentation performance.
Store the mature starter in the refrigerator with a loose lid and refresh weekly with fresh flour and water.

Notes

Use certified gluten-free flour to avoid cross-contact. Brown rice flour works best for beginners, while sorghum and buckwheat flours improve flavor and activity. Keep the starter in a warm spot between 70°F and 78°F. If gray liquid forms on top, stir it in or pour it off before feeding. Discard and restart if mold or pink/orange discoloration appears.

Nutrition