Hi, I been reading on wikipedia that optimal temperatures for sourdough are 25-30C,
however here in Canada we get that maybe a few days a year. Few years ago was making sourdough, but since it was very cool the yeasts predominanted making it very sour, not very apetizing. At warmer temperatures the sourdough would have a better flavour, also many beneficial bacteria grow at near body-temperature such as probiotics.
During the Alaskan Goldrush people used "sourdough pouches" alternately slung from neck or belt and typically made of leather. I'm curious what modern (vegan) materials could be used to construct such a pouch, that would be resistant to the aciding environment, potentially HDPE.
Though I do have a food dehydrator, can probably use that for keeping a batch warm. I also have a leather belt pouch, and wouldn't mind having something like a sourdough pouch add-on. Does anyone know how the original sourdough pouches looked like or were designed? a picture or blueprints would be nice, I'm assuming they aren't sold, if they ever were, but if they are, I'd love a link.
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Temperature is always a difficult balance. Too cold and it doesn't rise well, too warm and it rises too fast and tastes sour. We live in the Nevada Desert so we have the opposite problem. Keeping our dough cool enough in the hot summer months is challenging. Our bread only comes out really nicely in the spring and fall.
A dehydrator would work well, also putting it in the oven with just the light on is also a great way to keep your dough warm. Just watch it to make sure it doesn't get too warm. Sometimes on really cold desert nights, I will put it in the oven for 20 minutes and take it out for 20 minutes until the bulk rise is finished. You can also use extra warm water during the cold days. I've found that making quick breads, like pie crusts, pancakes, and other breads during the unfavorable seasons, are a great way to use your sourdough without having to fight the temperatures.
The pouch idea is one we are investigating ourselves. That is how I found your question. I haven't been able to find any other information myself. It is a facinating idea.