Berlin, Germany – A year ago, my baking skills were limited to simply following a recipe. If everything went smoothly, I could produce something decent. But any slight change in temperature, timing, or flour would result in a less-than-ideal outcome. Despite presenting my baked goods to others, the feedback was polite but not overly enthusiastic.
During a group vacation last year, a friend impressed us by baking fresh sourdough loaves daily. Eager to learn, he generously shared his knowledge, starter, and go-to recipe with me. Taking the newfound knowledge home, I attempted to bake my own naturally leavened, artisanal bread.
Turning to YouTube for further guidance, I discovered Hendrik Kleinwächter’s channel, “The Bread Code,” where he offered a course on making sourdough bread. While I learned a lot from his videos, translating the information from the screen to the mixing bowl proved to be a challenge. Despite my efforts, I still struggled to create the perfect loaf.
Realizing there was more to learn, I explored The Bread Code’s book, “The Sourdough Framework.” This open-source codebase provided detailed insights into the science behind bread-making, transforming my approach to baking. With a better understanding of the enzymatic reactions involved and the lifecycle of wheat seeds, I was able to diagnose and correct issues with my bread.
Kleinwächter, a German full-stack engineer, transitioned from founding startups to pursuing his passion for teaching others how to bake exceptional bread at home. His experiences with bread-making inspired him to create The Bread Code, a platform that offers valuable resources and guidance to aspiring bakers. Through his book, community, and online presence, Kleinwächter has empowered individuals to create their own bread, fostering a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Baking sourdough bread requires patience and attention to detail, as each variable can impact the final outcome. While commercial yeast offers a more straightforward approach to baking, working with sourdough involves cultivating a symbiotic relationship between yeast and bacteria. Kleinwächter’s emphasis on understanding the intricacies of the process has helped bakers troubleshoot issues and improve their skills over time.
As I continued to experiment with sourdough baking, I encountered challenges such as over-fermentation and inconsistent dough rise. Seeking guidance from Kleinwächter and following his methodical approach, I honed my skills and produced better results. Embracing the journey of bread-making, I learned to appreciate the nuances of the process and the joy of creating something from scratch.
In a digital age dominated by quick fixes and instant gratification, Kleinwächter’s commitment to slow, deliberate teaching stands out. By prioritizing quality over quantity, he has fostered a community of bread enthusiasts dedicated to honing their craft. Through his platform, individuals have discovered the therapeutic benefits of baking bread and the satisfaction of sharing homemade creations with others.
Bread-making is a timeless craft that transcends trends and fads. As Kleinwächter continues to inspire others to embark on their baking journey, the love for homemade bread remains a staple in kitchens around the world. With a focus on simplicity and tradition, The Bread Code celebrates the art of baking and the joy of creating something truly special with just a few basic ingredients.