If you’re a sourdough enthusiast, you’ve likely found yourself with a bit of extra sourdough starter after feeding your dough. Don’t toss it out! That “discard” is full of potential and can be transformed into a variety of tasty recipes that add a tangy twist to everyday favorites.
In this post, I’ll share some of the best sourdough discard recipes that will not only reduce waste but also boost the flavor of your baked goods. Whether you’re new to sourdough or a seasoned baker, these recipes are simple, quick, and satisfying.
What is Sourdough Discard?
Before diving into the recipes, let’s clarify what sourdough discard is. When feeding your sourdough starter, you remove a portion of it to maintain a manageable size and avoid over-fermentation. This portion is what we call the “discard.” Instead of throwing it away, you can repurpose it in recipes that don’t require the starter to rise like a traditional sourdough loaf.
The beauty of using sourdough discard is that it adds a unique depth of flavor and a slight tang to your favorite baked goods without the long fermentation process.
1. Sourdough Discard Pancakes
Light, fluffy, and slightly tangy, these sourdough discard pancakes are a delightful way to start your morning. They come together in no time and are perfect for using up extra starter.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sourdough discard, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve with your favorite toppings like butter, syrup, or fresh fruit.
These pancakes are super easy and the tangy flavor of the discard adds a subtle complexity to the sweetness of the batter.
2. Sourdough Discard Crackers
If you’re looking for a savory snack, these sourdough discard crackers are crispy, crunchy, and perfect for dipping. They’re incredibly simple to make and you can customize them with your favorite herbs and seasonings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh rosemary, thyme, or any dried herbs (optional)
- Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or other toppings (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the sourdough discard, olive oil, and salt until smooth.
- Spread the mixture thinly and evenly over the parchment paper using a spatula. You want it as thin as possible for crispy crackers.
- Sprinkle your chosen herbs or toppings over the batter.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and cut into squares or desired shapes while still warm. Let them cool completely before serving.
These sourdough crackers are a fantastic zero-waste snack and pair perfectly with cheese, hummus, or a charcuterie board.
3. Sourdough Discard Banana Bread
Banana bread gets a flavor boost with the addition of sourdough discard. The tangy discard adds a lovely depth to the sweetness of ripe bananas, resulting in a moist, flavorful loaf.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup melted butter or oil
- 1/2 cup sugar (brown sugar for extra richness)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: nuts or chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, sourdough discard, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in any optional nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
This sourdough banana bread is a great way to use up ripe bananas and discard while making a treat everyone will love.
4. Sourdough Discard Pizza Crust
Why not take your pizza night to the next level with a sourdough discard pizza crust? It adds a slight tang and crispiness that elevates the flavors of your toppings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, salt, olive oil, water, and yeast.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Add your favorite pizza toppings and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.
This pizza crust is easy to work with, and the tang from the discard makes it a unique and flavorful base for your pizza creations.
Final Thoughts
Using sourdough discard in your baking is an excellent way to reduce kitchen waste while adding a delicious twist to your favorite recipes. From fluffy pancakes to crunchy crackers and even banana bread, the possibilities are endless.
Next time you refresh your sourdough starter, don’t throw away the discard! Try one of these recipes and discover the magic of sourdough in new and creative ways.
Have any other sourdough discard ideas? Share them in the comments below – I’d love to try them out!