| has gloss | eng: Desem (Dutch for "leaven") is a type of sourdough starter made from whole wheat flour and water, inoculated by wild yeasts and bacteria, traditionally used in Belgium to make whole-wheat bread. The starter is grown in a bed of whole wheat flour at cool temperatures until it reaches sufficient maturity. The term "desem" also describes the whole wheat loaf made with this starter. Desem bread made from a mature desem is characterized by a strong rise, and a light texture, and nutty, slightly sour taste. The loaf is similar in process to the French "pain au levain", but made with whole wheat flour and starter instead of white flour. |