In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Shayla, the passionate owner of The Crafted Crust, a cottage bakery specializing in high hydration sourdough. Shayla shares her inspiring journey into the world of baking, which began as a personal escape during challenging times, including her mother's Alzheimer's diagnosis. With a background in food from her years at Quick Trip, Shayla discovered her love for sourdough by creating her own starter and experimenting with recipes.
Listeners will be intrigued as Shayla discusses her unique approach to sourdough, emphasizing the importance of high hydration for a softer chew and delicious flavor. She highlights her menu offerings, including pretzel bites, bagels, focaccia, and a variety of flavored loaves, all crafted with care and creativity. Shayla's commitment to using local ingredients shines through as she incorporates seasonal produce into her baking.
Join Courtney and Shayla for an engaging conversation about the art of sourdough baking, the challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, and the excitement of participating in local farmers' markets. Whether you're a baking enthusiast or simply curious about the cottage bakery scene, this episode is sure to inspire your culinary adventures!

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