How hard could it be to bake it yourself?

You’d be surprised.

And, in fact, you were and also disappointed.

Sourdough bread

Instead of a beautifully brown, Instagram-worthy loaf, yours came out pale and lumpy and just plain weird.

You followed the recipe exactly, sowhat could have gone wrong?

Baker Nora Allen, whomFood and Winecalls the Sourdough Whisperer, says not to worry.

Sourdough starter

Despite its cosmetic imperfections, your bread will probably still taste delicious with butter (trythese flavored ones!)

or maybe a little jam.

That, and incorporating these baking tips to help youavoid common sourdough mistakes.

Baker preparing sourdough bread

as you reach for your phone to snap a pic.

Nor do you have to time the feedings down to the exact minute, either.

Never knead your sourdough

Pro Home Cooksadvise that you should never knead sourdough dough.

Unbaked sourdough

How can you not knead bread dough?

Well, you’re still going to work it you’re not just going to let it sit there.

Poking sourdough

Fresh-baked sourdough