Yeast Is The Magic Microbe That Makes Bread Rise | HowStuffWorks

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Two primary types of commercial baker's yeast include dry yeast and instant yeast. Both perform yeast's No. 1 task — leavening — but each brings something slightly different to the table.

"Active dry yeast is traditionally one that requires rehydration. It is a moderate acting yeast compared to an instant yeast," Olson says. "The idea is that with instant yeast, you could blend it directly with flour and other dry ingredients then add your liquids. Instant yeast is also known to be faster acting, although the two types of dry yeast can generally be used interchangeably in most recipes."

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The fermentation process with active dry yeast takes longer than instant yeast. This can lead to subtly different flavors in breads made with active yeast over instant.

"When yeast has more time to work on the dough, more flavor and a better texture is developed," Olson says. "So there's some benefit to the more moderate active dry yeast, but then there are other products where instant yeast is very favorable in as well. People can use both types in all recipes."

yeast
There are a few ways to make your own yeasts, including creating a sourdough starter like this one. Pixabay

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