Hi Maya, I still think it's worth investing a little more time in your starter if it's rising well. Starting over will likely take at least 10 days to develop a mature starter, and it may only take you another day or two of twice a day feedings at room temperature to help your starter overcome its bad odor. Try to feed the starter again when its at its peak of rising or just beginning to fall, rather than waiting for it to fall completely. This may help keep the acidity down, if it's smelling very acidic. If it's rising too quickly overnight, use cool water to help slow down fermentation. Of course, you need to do what feels right for you, but I always think it's worth trying to revive, as long as there are no signs of mold or a pink or orange streak or tinge.
April 6, 2020 at 8:16am
In reply to Hi Barb, Following up… by Maya Jones (not verified)
Hi Maya, I still think it's worth investing a little more time in your starter if it's rising well. Starting over will likely take at least 10 days to develop a mature starter, and it may only take you another day or two of twice a day feedings at room temperature to help your starter overcome its bad odor. Try to feed the starter again when its at its peak of rising or just beginning to fall, rather than waiting for it to fall completely. This may help keep the acidity down, if it's smelling very acidic. If it's rising too quickly overnight, use cool water to help slow down fermentation. Of course, you need to do what feels right for you, but I always think it's worth trying to revive, as long as there are no signs of mold or a pink or orange streak or tinge.
Barb