Where did sourdough come from?

This content traces the history of sourdough bread, starting with its early origins around 14,000 years ago in Jordan, where the first evidence of bread was found. Sourdough as we know it began in ancient Egypt around 3000 BCE, where wild yeast naturally fermented dough. The technique spread through the Mediterranean, evolving in Greece and Rome, and became a staple in Europe by the Middle Ages. During the California Gold Rush, sourdough was favored by miners for its long shelf life. Although commercial yeast overtook traditional sourdough in the 19th century, the slow food movement and the COVID-19 pandemic sparked a resurgence in sourdough baking. Today, sourdough is celebrated for its craftsmanship, flavor, and health benefits, as people rediscover this timeless tradition.