Traditional Black Bread Baking Workshop – The Power of Sourdough and the Taste of Time
Step into the warm, comforting world of traditional Estonian bread baking. This workshop offers a hands-on experience rooted in heritage, where you’ll gain both practical skills and theoretical insight into sourdough maintenance, dough preparation, and the art of baking black bread — the beloved “black gold” of Estonian farms.
Each session begins with around 30 minutes of guided active work, followed by 3–4 hours of proofing and baking. While the dough rises and the oven works its magic, you’re free to relax — enjoy a sauna, take a walk in nature, or simply unwind. When the loaves are ready, we gather for the best part: the heavenly scent of fresh bread, the taste of farm butter, and a warm, shared tasting session.
You’ll also take home a piece of our farm’s sourdough starter, so the journey of baking can continue in your own kitchen.
More Than Just Bread
Bread baking is one of the oldest culinary traditions in the world, and in Estonia, it’s long been more than food — it’s a symbol of life, family, and home. For generations, farms across the country baked bread weekly, with the entire family often joining in. Loaves were marked with a cross before baking to ward off misfortune, and even a fallen crumb was treated with respect — picked up and kissed.
In this workshop, you become part of that story. You don’t just learn how to bake — you knead, shape, and connect with a timeless craft. Our bread is made the old way: slow-fermented with sourdough, without shortcuts, and rich with flavor and tradition.
Why Sourdough?
Sourdough isn’t just about taste — though its deep, complex flavor is hard to beat. Naturally fermented bread is easier to digest, helps with mineral absorption, and supports gut health. It’s food made with patience, intention, and care — and that’s something you can taste in every bite.
“A big piece of warm bread! Oh, how sweet it tasted!” – Juhan Liiv, “The Wanderer”
The poet praises homemade bread for a reason; warm farm bread smells wonderful. The nose-tingling aroma brings a wide smile to the face.