The Verge Reviews Sourdough Sidekick for Automated Starter Management
The Sourdough Sidekick, a new kitchen gadget co-developed with King Arthur Baking Company, aims to automate the management of sourdough starter, a key process in traditional bread making.
The Sourdough Sidekick has been introduced as a device designed to simplify a common chore in sourdough baking: starter maintenance. The gadget automates the feeding of sourdough starter with flour and water according to a user-defined schedule.
This automation is intended to ensure the starter is ready for baking at a convenient time, allowing home bakers to concentrate on other aspects of bread preparation like kneading and shaping. The product is backed by King Arthur Baking Company.
Sourdough baking relies on natural fermentation, a process that can be time-consuming and require consistent attention. By handling the feeding schedule, the Sourdough Sidekick addresses what is described as the "boring bit" of managing the starter culture.
The device's utility is contingent on the user's baking frequency, as with many specialized kitchen appliances. Further details on its functionality and market availability are expected.