Share
Yeast is special in the Indian kitchen, playing a vital role in several traditional dishes. From fluffy bhaturas and naans to home-baked bread, yeast enhances the texture and flavour of these delicacies. With yeast, dishes become softer, more airy, and flavoursome. Whether you are preparing ferment-based dishes like idli or dosa or just baking bread at home, yeast contributes significantly to the rise and texture of the food. This natural leavening agent provides versatility to Indian cooking, making it an essential ingredient in many households.
Video Credit: YouTube | My Taste
Growing yeast at home is incredibly easy and cost-effective. You only need basic ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen: flour, water, and a suitable container. Made from scratch, homemade yeast gives your food a distinct taste devoid of chemicals. Once ready, you can keep and use the method for several months; it calls for little upkeep once ready.
Tips To Grow Yeast At Home
Image Credit: Freepik
Select A Large, Clean Jar
Start by choosing a large, sterilised jar. It’s important to use a jar that holds at least two quarts (two liters). The jar needs space for the yeast to grow, so having a large container prevents overflow and gives room for easy cleaning. Glass is a popular option as it is easy to clean and allows you to view the starter clearly. If the jar is heat-safe, sterilise it in boiling water. Alternatively, wash it in hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
Pour Dechlorinated Water
To start the yeast, pour ½ cup (120 ml) of dechlorinated water into the jar. Tap water treated with chlorine can inhibit yeast growth. Allow the water to sit uncovered for 24 hours to remove chlorine. You can also use de-chlorination tablets if needed. It’s ideal to use hard water as the minerals help yeast grow but avoid distilled water, which lacks necessary nutrients.
Mix Flour Into The Water
Image Credit: Freepik
Add ¾ cup (180 ml) of unbleached flour into the water. Stir it thoroughly to combine the flour and water. This mix of flour and water will begin the fermentation process as the flour contains wild yeast. Stir the mixture vigorously to introduce air, which helps the yeast thrive. You can experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or brown rice flour, to achieve varying flavours.
Add Grapes (Optional)
If you wish to enhance the sour flavour of the yeast starter, consider adding organic, unwashed grapes. These grapes naturally contain yeast strains that can influence the taste. However, this step is optional; not all bakers agree on its effectiveness. The grapes should be added unwashed to avoid removing the yeast on their surface if used.
Cover The Jar
Image Credit: Adobe Stock
Cover the jar with a cheesecloth or clean dishcloth tied with a rubber band. This covering allows airflow while keeping out debris. It’s important not to seal the jar tightly, as yeast produces gas, and an airtight container could build pressure or limit the oxygen needed for yeast growth.
Keep In A Warm Place
Place the jar in a warm area of your kitchen for two days. Yeast thrives in temperatures of at least 21°C (70°F). After two days, you should see bubbles forming in the mixture, which may produce a mild smell. Store the jar near the stove or a warm appliance if your home is cold, but ensure it doesn’t get too hot. Excessive heat can kill the yeast.
Add More Flour And Water
Image Credit: Freepik
After two days, add ½ cup (120 ml) of water and ¾ cup (180 ml) of flour to the mixture. Stir it thoroughly and leave it for an additional 24 hours. This step is essential to feed the growing yeast colony.
Daily Feeding And Maintenance
Remove a portion of the starter daily, leaving about ½ cup in the jar. This discarded starter part is not yet ready for baking, so throw it out. Replace it with fresh water and flour in the same 3:2 ratio (flour to water). This daily feeding keeps the yeast healthy and active. Over time, the mixture will produce a more pleasant, bread-like aroma, and the yellowish liquid at the top should disappear.
Move To The Refrigerator
Image Credit: Adobe Stock
Once your yeast starter consistently doubles in size daily and no longer produces foul smells, move it to the refrigerator. This step will slow down the yeast’s activity. At this stage, you only need to feed it once a week. Ensure the jar is covered tightly before refrigerating, and remember to feed it to keep the yeast alive.
Prepare For Baking
When you are ready to use your yeast starter, bring it to room temperature and feed it several times over 8 to 12-hour intervals. This will reactivate the yeast and prepare it for baking. Remember, wild yeast can be slower than commercial yeast, so give the dough plenty of time to rise. Once ready, the dough can be used to bake bread, pancakes, and more.
Growing Brewer’s Yeast Cultures
Image Credit: Freepik
Growing brewer’s yeast is slightly more complex for home brewers but achievable with care. Brewer’s yeast thrives in a sterile environment, so begin by sterilising all equipment thoroughly. Malt extract is used as the nutrient base, and agar powder creates a gelatinous mixture for the yeast to rest on. With careful handling, brewer's yeast can also be grown and used in homebrewing efforts.
Growing yeast at home is a simple yet rewarding process. Homemade yeast provides natural, chemical-free alternatives, whether used for baking or brewing. With minimal ingredients and effort, anyone can cultivate yeast that lasts for months. This process connects people to traditional food preparation and adds fresh, unique flavours to everyday recipes.
