Sourdough Varieties of the World

Professional bakers seek out starters from around the world just for their special properties (extra tang, quick rising, etc). Though it may be uprooted from its home, its unique characteristics remain. It is generally believed that sourdough starter retains most of its original strains of yeast and bacteria. This is because these primary strains have formed a strong mutual atmosphere which promotes continual growth and reproduction. There are limitless varieties of starters in the world. San Francisco is easily one of the most popular and recognizable, but there are many others to try!

Austria
Lends well to rye, rises slowly and creates a nice sour edge.

Australia
Lends itself well to Spelt and Kamut. Distinct flavor of its own.

Bahrain
Extra sour, rises well. Also from an ancient culture with a rich history in sourdough

Egypt
Mild flavor, lends itself well to bread machines. A very old starter from one of the first cultures that harnessed wild yeasts.

Finland
Very distinct flavor, a fun starter for the explorer at heart!

France
Notably mild flavor. Well-known and popular among bakeries.

Italian
Dates back to pizza making in Naples in the 1800’s - this one’s for authenticity junkies!

New Zealand
Works very well with rye and is very versatile with other flours. Also easy to work and travel with. Has a mellow note.

Russia
Rises quickly, works well with bread machines.

San Francisco
Notably sour, with a longer rise time, unique and famous flavor.

Saudi Arabia
A very unique and robust flavor passed down from generation to generation.

South African
Tends to leaven whole grain better than white, a rare attribute. Holds the whole grain flavor better too. Hardy and rises well even at cooler temperatures.

Yukon
Alaskan starter from the Klondike - rises faster than San Francisco. Has a balanced flavor.