LOL! Is this the first time you’ve been cooking much?
I hear ya on the sourdough thing. I did the same thing, since I’m worried about my yeast not lasting. I even bought a sourdough starter after making my own was a disaster. That didn’t work either. The only way I’ve gotten a sourdough loaf that I liked (ie., was light enough to NOT use as a structural material) was to add extra yeast. Thereby, ruining the whole ‘using sourdough as a prepping thing’.
Let me know if you ever figure out the sourdough secret!
Don’t forget that the ‘starter’ needs to be fed (sugar) and watered every other day ,or three , just to keep going .
There is a difference in wheat bearies : hard red winter wheat will give you a heavy bread , semolina will give you a lighter loaf . Pastry flour is another variety of wheat altogether . Consider “sifting” your flour to make a lighter loaf . And rotate your stock.
To supplement protein sources in your diet consider taking up fishing as a recreational sport (also a good family activity). There are numerous fishable ponds and streams which are overlooked by many who lack the time , or the patience to try .