You can find yeast naturally in a few ways:
1. From the Air:
- Yeast is present in the air around us, especially in places with lots of organic matter like bakeries or fruit orchards.
- You can capture it by creating a "yeast trap" using a simple mixture of water, sugar, and fruit. This creates a hospitable environment for yeast to grow, and you can then collect the resulting liquid.
- This method is not always reliable as the amount of yeast in the air can vary significantly.
2. From Fruits:
- Many fruits have yeast naturally present on their skins like grapes, apples, and berries.
- You can use these fruits to create a starter by crushing them and adding water and sugar.
- This method is often used for making wine or cider as the yeast naturally present on the fruit will ferment the sugars into alcohol.
3. From Wild Yeasts:
- Wild yeasts can be found in various environments, such as on trees, flowers, and even in the soil.
- You can collect wild yeast by exposing a sterile solution to these environments and then allowing it to ferment.
- This method is often used by brewers and bakers who are looking for unique yeast strains.
4. From Commercial Sources:
- While not strictly "natural", you can purchase active dry yeast from supermarkets or online retailers.
- This type of yeast is convenient and reliable and is often used for baking bread, pizza, and other baked goods.
Remember, always ensure proper hygiene and sanitation when working with yeast to prevent contamination.
