Hi evryone,
What is Artisan Baking?What is Artisan Bread? I am trying to find (if possible) a clearer definition for these two questions. It appears that every time that you ask these questions there are as many different answers as there are breads. I thought I would put the questions out to the general sourdough forum community to see if I can get a clear answer (may just confuse things even more). CheersPaulCategory:
Replies
Maedi found some good words at The Village Bakery:
"Artisan baking celebrates the role of the individual not industrial values of scale. Our bakers use their senses to produce our bread: a healthy nose to test the fermentation; a skilful touch to knead, mould and shape; and an experienced eye to tell that the bread is ready for baking and just right when it comes out of the oven. The best things take thought and care; engage your senses and enjoy."
[quote=Graham]
"Artisan baking celebrates the role of the individual not industrial values of scale. Our bakers use their senses to produce our bread: a healthy nose to test the fermentation; a skilful touch to knead, mould and shape; and an experienced eye to tell that the bread is ready for baking and just right when it comes out of the oven. The best things take thought and care; engage your senses and enjoy."
[/quote]
I love this definition Graham. It really captures my experience when I started trying to make SD bread at home. I think it was only when I started to engage my senses and have fun with it that I started to improve dramatically. When I stopped worrying about what the book said and began to observe and smell and feel what I was doing I began to build on my skills, experiences and confidence and move down that road to becoming an artisan.