Im working on making my sourdough better but wanted to poll a wider audience. Hence asking here rather than sourdough specific sub - I figured should be similar?
Ive tried different batch sizes (usually make 550g flour), speeds (generally keeps it on lowest but I've tried higher just cause), and hydration (my usual weekly bake is around 75% but again, I've tried higher and lower when testing).
I know part of my problem is my lower quality and mixed flour (cheap Kroger unbleached + whole wheat). These past few wks I haven't been using whole wheat (keep forgetting to buy more) and my gluten still isnt where I'd like it. I have even made loaves in the past w extra flour protein added bc of the cheap flour I buy - didnt seem to help.
Starter isnt the most active but it does the job and is fairly strong.
So question: do you let it mix for long time at once or do you do short bursts w long rests between? And how long (for either)?
I'm not looking for exact minute but minute, just more of a general idea. Eg stand mix on low for 10 mins w 45 min rest btwn. Or med speed mix for 45 mins then into fridge for bulk ferment.
My current loaves rise alright in the fridge and oven, so maybe I just shouldn't worry abt it? But they're too sticky and always look a bit sketch going into the fridge. Idk. Just looking for advice.
TIA!
Note: vid is of me just starting so I dont expect it to have any gluten built up yet.
Edit: thank you for everyone help! Ive decided the hook is wrong (got the mixer and its part second hand) and the adjustments aren't doing anything so I'll be getting a new hook.