Well, I finally gave up on my first attempt at a starter today. Sorry to say that Linda was put to sleep in the disposal. After following the directions religiously, Linda never quite got started. I added the 800g of bread flour to 800g of warm water and stuffed it with the peels of two apples. After a few days it had a dark crust on top and had the consistency of pancake batter. I fed her after removing about 800g with 400g flour and 400g water. Next day I put it in the fridge and it never really stiffened up. Fed her again and the same thing. Even after leaving it out for a couple of days, a little bubbling on top but still too much like liquid.
Poured her down the drain and started again this evening. Harry is now resting in a big bowl after mixing the flour and water along with the peels of two apples. Used my Kitchenaid on number 2 till it was pretty mixed in although it never quite got all the flour mixed in which I took care of with a spatula. I covered him with plastic wrap this time to try and avoid the crust forming. (Is that a bad thing?) We will see what happens in a few days.
I am really impressed with the new site Jacob. Love your podcasts and videos. I listen to the podcasts walking to and from work everyday. On my third time around. Pick up some new tips every time.
Best of Luck!
Elliot