The longevity of a gluten-free sourdough starter in the fridge is similar to that of a regular sourdough starter. When properly cared for, a gluten-free sourdough starter can last for several weeks to a few months in the refrigerator. The specific duration depends on various factors, including the feeding schedule, temperature, and the condition of the starter when it was placed in the fridge.
To extend the life of your gluten-free sourdough starter in the fridge:
Feeding Schedule: If you plan to store the starter for an extended period, consider feeding it before refrigeration to ensure it is in a healthy and active state. A well-fed starter is more likely to survive longer in the cold environment.
Storage Container: Use a clean and airtight container to store the gluten-free sourdough starter in the refrigerator. Mason jars or plastic containers with secure lids work well for this purpose.
Temperature: Keep the starter in the refrigerator where the temperature is consistently cold but not freezing. Avoid storing it in the freezer, as freezing can damage the microbial activity in the starter.
Refreshing: To keep the starter alive and active during storage, you may need to refresh it periodically. Depending on the specific recipe and starter maintenance instructions, you may need to remove a portion of the starter from the fridge, feed it with fresh gluten-free flour and water, let it ferment at room temperature for a few hours, and then return it to the refrigerator.
Keep in mind that gluten-free sourdough starters might have slightly different behaviors compared to traditional wheat-based sourdough starters. Be attentive to your starter's characteristics and follow any specific guidelines provided with your gluten-free sourdough recipe or starter culture. If you're uncertain about your starter's health or vitality, you can perform a "float test" to check if it's still active and ready for use.
Always follow proper food safety practices and discard the starter if it shows signs of spoilage or an off odor. When in doubt, it's better to start fresh with a new gluten-free sourdough starter.