Herman Wheat 'n' Honey Starter

Source: Posted by Nancy K March 8, 2001 08:25:38:

A couple of wonderful ladies from North Branch, MN had a newsletter several years back and this wonderful sourdough starter was in one of the issues.

1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup white or unbleached flour or use all wheat flour if you prefer
2 cups milk
1/2 cup honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon ginger
1/3 cup warm water
2 tablespoons dry yeast or 2 packages

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon ginger and honey or brown sugar over the warm water. Sprinkle yeast over this and stir. Let stand in warm place to double in size, approximately 10 minutes.

Mix milk, honey or brown sugar, flours, and yeast mixture in a plastic bag or glass container, about the size of a 5 quart ice cream pail or a gallon size Pyrex jar. Stir, using only a wooden spoon as metal objects will retard Herman's growth. Leave the cover on loosely or place a glass plate over the top of the container so that Herman can breathe. Herman doubles, even triples at times of vigorous rising. Stand Herman overnight in a warm place.

Next day refrigerate, covered, and stir each day. This is very important with Wheat