When I first got into sourdough baking, I tried to be as frugal as possible to pursue my passion without breaking the bank. The tools I started with are still the core of my sourdough baking setup, but over time, I’ve added a few extras to make the process more efficient, enjoyable, and aesthetically pleasing. The beauty of sourdough is that you don’t need a ton of fancy equipment to get started, but having the right tools can make the process much smoother and more rewarding.
In this guide, I’ll break down the must-have sourdough tools—the essential items needed to bake a successful loaf—and the nice-to-have sourdough tools, which can enhance your experience but aren’t strictly necessary.
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Must-Have Sourdough Tools
1. Glass Bowls
A good set of glass bowls is essential for sourdough baking. They allow you to clearly see how much your dough has risen, making it easier to track fermentation. Unlike plastic, glass doesn’t hold onto odors or stains, making it a cleaner and more sustainable choice for long-term baking. Plus, using clear bowls lets you monitor the development of your dough without disturbing it too often. If you’re curious about why I avoid plastic in my kitchen, check out my Non-Toxic Kitchen Must-Haves.
2. Dutch Oven
A Dutch oven is crucial for achieving the beautiful oven spring and crusty exterior that sourdough is known for. The enclosed environment helps trap steam, which is essential for proper dough expansion and crust formation. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can use an oven-safe pot with a tight-fitting lid, but nothing quite replicates the results of a true cast iron Dutch oven.
Why Steam Matters
Steam is the secret to getting that signature crispy crust. It keeps the dough’s surface moist during the initial baking phase, allowing for maximum oven spring. Without it, your bread may end up too dense or with a dull, hard crust instead of a crisp and blistered one.
3. Banneton Basket
A banneton basket is used for proofing sourdough and shaping the dough before baking. It helps maintain the structure and gives the bread those beautiful, professional-looking ridges. If you don’t have one, you can use a well-floured towel inside a bowl as a substitute, but a banneton gives the best results.
4. Bread Lame
A bread lame is a sharp tool used to score the dough before baking. Proper scoring allows for controlled expansion in the oven, preventing the bread from bursting in unintended spots. If you don’t have a bread lame, a very sharp knife or even a razor blade can be used, but a lame provides precision and consistency.
5. Plastic Bags or Reusable Covers
You’ll need plastic bags or reusable covers to cover your dough while it proofs, preventing it from drying out. If you’re looking for sustainable alternatives, beeswax wraps or silicone covers work great as well. Covering your dough properly ensures it doesn’t develop a dry crust that could hinder rising.
6. Rye Flour
While not necessarily a tool, rye flour is a must-have for building a strong and active sourdough starter. It ferments more readily than all-purpose flour, leading to a more vigorous and robust starter. Rye flour provides extra nutrients that help beneficial bacteria thrive, which is essential when you’re first establishing a sourdough culture. Check out my Fail-Proof Sourdough Starter Recipe to learn more.
Wondering what some of these sourdough terms mean? Check out my Beginner’s Sourdough Guide for definitions and tips!
Nice-to-Have Sourdough Tools
1. Proofing Box
A proofing box is an excellent investment if you want consistent fermentation, regardless of the season. It maintains a stable, warm environment, ensuring that your dough proofs at an optimal rate. If you often struggle with slow fermentation due to cold kitchen temperatures, a proofing box can save you a lot of frustration.
2. Cast Iron Griddle
If you love making sourdough pancakes, English muffins, or flatbreads, a cast iron griddle is a game changer. It provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked sourdough-based breakfast favorites. A well-seasoned griddle also adds a slight depth of flavor to your baked goods, making them even more delicious.
3. Kitchen Scale
Many bakers consider a kitchen scale essential, but I’ve successfully made loaves using cup measurements. However, weighing ingredients improves precision and consistency, especially if you’re troubleshooting sourdough issues. If you often bake multiple types of bread or want to refine your technique, a scale is an excellent investment.
4. Weck Jars
Weck jars are the stylish glass jars you often see on Instagram, used for storing sourdough starters. While not necessary, they add a touch of charm to your kitchen and provide an airtight seal for your starter. If aesthetics matter to you, these jars are a beautiful addition to any sourdough setup.
5. Bench Scraper
A bench scraper is incredibly useful for handling high-hydration dough, transferring dough to a banneton basket, and cleaning up flour from your work surface. However, if you prefer a minimalist approach, wet hands work just as well. Bench scrapers are especially handy for bakers who work with larger batches or experiment with different hydration levels.
6. KitchenAid Stand Mixer
If you plan to make sourdough brioche, bagels, or other enriched doughs, a KitchenAid stand mixer can save a lot of effort. Kneading by hand is always an option, but a mixer makes the process much easier. If you often bake enriched doughs that require longer kneading times, this tool is well worth the investment.
7. Silicone Baking Mat and Bread Sling
A silicone baking mat is a great tool for preventing sticking and reducing waste from parchment paper. It provides a reusable, non-stick surface that is especially useful for sourdough pizza or focaccia.
Conclusion
While you don’t need every fancy gadget to make sourdough, having the right tools can improve your baking experience and results. Start with the must-have sourdough tools, and as you become more comfortable, consider adding some of the nice-to-have tools to refine your process.
Are you new to sourdough? Don’t forget to check out my Beginner’s Sourdough Guide and Fail-Proof Sourdough Starter Recipe for step-by-step help!
