Essential Tools for Sourdough Baking
Baking with Nonna Bella is a joy, and having the right tools makes the process even easier. Here’s a list of essentials to help you craft beautiful sourdough loaves.
Must-Have Tools:
-
Glass Jar: For storing and feeding Nonna Bella (a 1-quart jar works well).
-
Digital Scale: For precise measurements—sourdough baking is best by weight, not volume.
-
Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing and bulk fermentation.
-
Banneton or Proofing Basket: To shape your dough and create a rustic pattern (a bowl with a floured cloth works too).
-
Dutch Oven: For baking with steam, ensuring a crispy crust and good oven spring.
-
Lame or Sharp Knife: For scoring the dough before baking.
-
Parchment Paper: To transfer the dough into a hot Dutch oven safely.
Optional Tools:
-
Dough Scraper: For handling sticky dough during stretch-and-folds.
-
Thermometer: To check water temperature (lukewarm, 80°F) and room temperature for fermentation.
Where to Get Them: Find all these essentials in Nonna Bella’s Sourdough Shop (tools and essentials), curated to help you bake like a Tuscan nonna.
Tip: Explore our sourdough recipes (/pages/nonna-bellas-sourdough-recipes) to put your tools to use and create your first loaf with Nonna Bella.