Can I leave my starter after the 7 days on the counter and then feed once a day to keep it going? A friend of mine had what she called a sourdough starter but she fed hers mashed potato flakes and sugar, what is the difference between these and which is best for a full sourdough bread flavor(think Jack n the box's sourdough). Yes, Nicole, you can leave your starter on the counter and feed it daily. Just be sure to feed it with all-purpose flour, no whole grains; whole grains could cause it to go bad. The potato flake/sugar school of sourdough feeding is another way of approaching it; I remember trying it WAY long ago, but can't comment on results. You might want to start another starter and try your friend's method, so you could see for yourself what the difference is. I'm not familiar with Jack in the Box, but if you're looking for a more sour bread, try refrigerating the shaped dough over night before baking. the sourness in your bread will come mostly from the way the dough is handled, rather than form the starter itself. For more information, call our baker's hotline: 800-827[6836. PJH

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