Every couple weeks or so, we send out a little roundup of new recipes, techniques, and tutorials that we’ve recently posted on the site. Occasionally we announce exclusive giveaways to newsletter subscribers as well. We won’t spam you with ads or share or sell your email address. Every email we send has a 1-click unsubscribe link if you decide it’s not for you.
Levain / leaven
A chemical or biological agent used to create air pockets in dough or batter. Sourdough starter, commercial yeast, wild yeast, baking soda, and baking powder are all examples of leavening agents. The term levain is also used to refer to sourdough starter that’s been fed according to a recipe’s instructions and is then used in the mixing of the dough.
Levain / leaven