Hi Judy, it sounds like you're maintaining a relatively more liquid starter than the one we suggest, which may be more likely to separate in the way you describe. If you're going for a starter that is equal parts by weight (as in our recipe), then the cup measurements would be more like 1/2 cup (4 ounces, 113g) starter + 1/2 cup (4 ounces, 113g) water + 1 scant cup (4 ounces, 113g) AP flour. If you're worried about using up too much flour you can certainly reduce these amounts proportionally, to something like 1/4 cup starter + 1/4 cup water + scant 1/2 cup flour. I would also encourage you to stir in the liquid on top at this point, rather than discard it. The only reason I discarded the hooch in the neglected starter is that it looked so dark and unappetizing. You might also want to consider starting out with a whole grain flour for the first few feedings and only feed once a day until the starter begins to rise predictably (twice). After that, I would switch to twice a day feedings and gradually phase in the AP flour. I hope this helps! Let us know how it goes. 

Barb

• Reply