Herman Starter

PHILLY.INQUIRER
2 tb Or 2 envelopes active dry
Yeast
1/4 c Warm water
1 c Sugar
2 c All purpose white flour
2 c Milk (see note)

DAY,1: Sprinkle yeast over warm water.Add 1 tablespoon of the sugar and
let stand a few minutes until yeast is active and swelling.Combine
remaining sugar,flour and milk in a 4 t0 6 quart glass,plastic or pottery
bowl or container.(Do not use metal bowls or utensils as these may retard
starter growth.)With a wooden spoon,stir in active yeast mixture.Cover
loosely with a towel so Herman can breathe.Let stand in a warm draft free
place overnight.
DAYS,2,3,and 4:Stir daily with a wooden spoon.Keep covered.Keep cool.
DAY,5: Stir in 1/2 cup sugar,1 cup milk and 1 cup flour.Let stand 24
hours.
DAYS,6,7,8,and 9:Stir daily with a wooden spoon.
DAY,10: Repeat DAY 5,stirring in 1/2 cup sugar,1 cup milk and 1 cup
flour.
THIS gives you enough starter to use freely in recipes and/or give away.
Herman may be replenished as needed but can go no more than 5 days at room
temperature between feedings.After feeding,wait 24 hours before using the
renewed starter.
DAILY stirring helps keep yeast mold from forming.
Most directions specify that Herman not be refrigerated since cooler
temperatures slow the growth and “souring” of the starter.It is,however,a
safer course for busy cooks with fast growing startersHerman also is
freezer-friendly and may be kept on ice between baking impulses if you get
board.
NOTE: If desired,substitute butter-milk for milk in starter for more
flavor and less fat.If more starter is needed,additions may be doubled when
2 or more cups of starter are used…..

AN ASIDE::: Marilyn Marter is a food columnist for the
Philly.Inquirer…..Irwin E.