15 Reasons to Start Baking with Sourdough

If you’ve ever thought about baking your own bread but felt intimidated, sourdough is the perfect place to start. Yes, it has a reputation for being high-maintenance—but once you get the hang of it, it’s one of the most rewarding skills you can add to your homestead kitchen.

Here are 15 reasons why now’s the time to grab some flour, water, my 31-year-old sourdough starter, and a jar, and start baking with sourdough:

1. Easier to Digest

The fermentation process involved in sourdough baking helps break down gluten and phytic acid, which are often hard to digest in regular bread. This makes sourdough easier on your stomach, especially for those with mild gluten sensitivity or digestive issues. The beneficial bacteria in the starter essentially do some of the digestive work for you before you even take a bite.

2. More Blood Sugar Friendly

Thanks to its long fermentation, sourdough has a lower glycemic index than conventional bread. This means it releases glucose more slowly into your bloodstream, helping to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. For anyone looking to manage energy dips or maintain consistent energy throughout the day, sourdough can be a smart swap.

3. Supports Gut Health

Sourdough is a fermented food, and fermented foods are great for gut health. The live cultures in sourdough (known as lactobacilli) may help support your microbiome and improve digestion. While the baking process kills live probiotics, the prebiotic fiber that remains helps feed your good gut bacteria.

4. Saves You Money

Homemade sourdough is one of the most budget-friendly staples you can make. With just flour, water, salt, and time, you can create something that rivals artisan loaves from a bakery—for just pennies per serving. It’s a great way to reduce your grocery bill without compromising on quality.

5. No Additives or Preservatives

Store-bought bread often contains preservatives, dough conditioners, and other additives to keep it soft and shelf-stable. When you bake sourdough at home, you control the ingredients completely—no sketchy chemicals or artificial flavors. Just wholesome, real food you can feel good about feeding your family.

6. Keeps You Full

Thanks to its higher fiber content and natural fermentation, sourdough tends to be more filling than conventional bread. That means you can enjoy a slice or two and actually feel satisfied, which helps reduce mindless snacking and keeps your energy steady between meals.

7. Naturally Long Shelf Life

Sourdough’s natural acidity acts as a preservative, giving it a longer shelf life than other homemade breads. It resists mold and staling better, which means your homemade loaf will stay fresher longer without any additives—a big win for busy households.

8. The Flavor is Incredible

There’s no comparing the flavor of sourdough to store-bought bread. Its deep, tangy flavor comes from natural fermentation, not artificial enhancers. Whether you're toasting it for breakfast or building a sandwich, the complexity of flavor in each bite makes it totally worth the effort.

9. It’s a Self-Reliance Skill

Learning to bake sourdough is more than just a kitchen hobby—it's a practical life skill. In uncertain times, knowing how to make nourishing food from the basics you have on hand can provide peace of mind and a sense of control. It’s a perfect fit for a homesteading or preparedness mindset.

10. It’s Therapeutic

The process of baking sourdough can be meditative and calming. From feeding your starter to stretching and folding your dough, it offers moments of mindfulness in a busy day. It encourages you to slow down, be present, and enjoy the rhythms of home life.

11. Customizable for Your Family

Once you’ve mastered the basics, sourdough becomes a canvas for your creativity. You can experiment with whole grains, add-ins like herbs or seeds, and even branch out into sourdough pancakes, muffins, and pizza crust. It's easy to tailor recipes to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs.

12. Your Starter Is Basically a Pet

It doesn’t need walks or vet appointments, but your sourdough starter does need feeding and attention. In return, it becomes a quirky and reliable part of your kitchen life. Many sourdough bakers even name their starters—it’s a fun (and productive) way to nurture something living.

13. It’s Ancestral

For centuries, sourdough was how bread was made before commercial yeast was invented. Baking with a starter connects you to generations of homemakers and bakers who fed their families with simple, nourishing ingredients. It’s a beautiful way to honor traditional skills.

14. Your Home Will Smell Amazing

There’s nothing like the warm, cozy scent of bread baking in the oven. It makes your home feel comforting and alive. For those trying to eliminate synthetic air fresheners and candles, this is one way to make your home smell incredible, naturally.

15. It’s Impressive

Let’s be real—telling people you bake your own sourdough feels a little bit like a superpower. It might seem complicated from the outside, but once you get going, it’s not nearly as hard as it looks. Plus, it’s a great way to show your friends and family that real food can be made right at home.

Final Thoughts

Baking sourdough isn’t just about bread—it’s about slowing down, nourishing your body, and building a skill that connects you to generations of badasses before you. Whether you’re deep into your homesteading journey or just starting out, there’s a place for a bubbling jar of starter on your counter.

Ready to get STARTed (hehe)? I’ve got some tips (and a 31-year-old starter) to help you along the way. And if you ever feel stuck, just reach out—this community is all about helping each other thrive!