I graduated as a chef back in 2009. After working in all kinds of kitchens, I discovered my true love was baking, especially bread and pastries. So, I decided to start my own little bakery, D’Silvia.
For five years, D’Silvia delivered fresh breads and pastries to small local restaurants. It was such a rewarding experience connecting with local businesses and sharing my creations!
I also taught live cooking classes, wrote a recipe book, and joined in at local fairs across Costa Rica. Then, in 2020, I launched my next big adventure: Masa Madre Lab! Through this subscription-based, online space, I get to teach people from all over the magic of making sourdough bread and pastries.
Masa Madre Lab is here for beginner and intermediate bakers alike. It’s not just about baking great bread; it’s about understanding all the wonderful health benefits of sourdough, thanks to its long fermentation process.
To me, making good bread is such an important part of life. Sadly, a lot of its value has been lost in today’s world. But I believe that by building a solid foundation in baking, you can care for the people you love, live a healthier lifestyle, and feel deeply connected to yourself.
Through engaging, easy-to-follow content, and an interactive platform, I’m spreading my passion for baking and building a global community of bakers—all from the comfort of my home.
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Pete Walters, Luke caffe
To keep your bread at its freshest in both taste and texture, slice it and store it in the freezer. If freezing isn’t an option, a bread box or similar container at room temperature works best. Avoid refrigerating bread, as it tends to dry out quickly in the fridge.
To keep a sourdough starter active, feed it equal parts (1:1:1 ratio) of starter, flour, and water by weight, typically 50 grams each. For a less tangy starter, use a higher ratio of flour and water, such as 1:2:2. Adjust based on your baking schedule and room temperature—feeding more frequently in warmer conditions.
To achieve a good rise and airy texture, ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before baking, as this indicates it’s ready to leaven the dough. Use a high hydration level (around 70-75%) and allow for a long, slow fermentation to develop gluten and trap air. Proper folding during bulk fermentation also strengthens the dough for better structure and openness.
Yes, sourdough discard can add flavor and texture to various recipes. Try using it in pancakes or waffles for a subtle tang, in crackers for a crisp snack, or in banana bread for a moist, slightly sour twist. Discard works well in any recipe that benefits from extra depth and mild sourness.