Are you tired of throwing away that excess sourdough starter? Think again! The natural yeast and bacteria present in your sourdough starter can add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes, from savory breakfast treats to satisfying dinner mainstays. In this article, we’ll explore 20 creative and delicious ways to use up your sourdough discard, from classic breads and rolls to innovative pizzas, pancakes, and more.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out with sourdough, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. From hearty dinner rolls to crispy fried chicken tenders, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, start using up that excess starter, and discover the endless possibilities of sourdough discard cooking!
Sourdough Discard Pizza with Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious pizza crust, topped with sweet caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (active)
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, warm water, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add olive oil and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness (about 1/8 inch). Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
5. Caramelize onions by cooking sliced onions in butter over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Spread caramelized onions evenly over the pizza crust.
7. Top with crumbled goat cheese.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Savory Sourdough Discard Pancakes with Scallions and Bacon
Elevate your breakfast game with these savory pancakes, perfectly infused with the tanginess of sourdough discard and the smokiness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings like grated cheddar or diced herbs
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, milk, egg, and melted butter.
2. Add sourdough discard and mix until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped scallions and crumbled bacon.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on pancake size)
Garlic Parmesan Sourdough Discard Rolls
Transform your sourdough discard into delicious rolls infused with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, bread flour, yeast, and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the garlic and parmesan cheese; mix until well combined.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Sourdough Discard Focaccia with Rosemary and Sea Salt
Transform your sourdough starter discard into a delicious and aromatic focaccia, infused with the flavors of rosemary and sea salt.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (100% hydration)
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- Additional flour for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix discard, warm water, and yeast in a bowl. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Add olive oil, salt, rosemary leaves, and sea salt. Mix until combined.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Shape into a rectangle or oblong shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Dust with flour if desired. Cover with plastic wrap or damp cloth. Let it rest at room temperature for 2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Sourdough Discard Drop Biscuits
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious and flaky biscuit, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups. These cheesy biscuits are easy to make and require minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine sourdough discard, grated cheese, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
3. Pour in melted butter and mix until the dough comes together in shaggy masses.
4. Drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each biscuit.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sourdough Discard Flatbread with Hummus and Roasted Veggies
Sourdough Discard Flatbread with Hummus and Roasted Veggies
Summary: Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that transforms sourdough discard into crispy flatbread, paired with creamy hummus and roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup hummus
– Assorted roasted vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter discard and water. Mix until smooth.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 2-3 portions, depending on desired flatbread size.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook flatbreads for 30-45 seconds per side, until crispy and golden.
7. Serve warm with hummus and roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sourdough Discard Cheddar and Chive Waffles
Elevate your waffle game with the tangy, cheesy goodness of sourdough discard cheddar and chive. Perfect for a weekend brunch or as a unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add grated cheddar cheese, chopped chives, beaten egg, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (6-8 waffles)
Crispy Sourdough Discard Fried Chicken Tenders
Elevate your fried chicken game with this innovative recipe that utilizes sourdough discard and crispy breading for a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (active starter or day-old dough)
– 1 pound chicken breast tenders
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until coated with the mixture.
3. Dip each tender into buttermilk, then coat in the sourdough breading mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken tenders for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sourdough Discard Stuffing with Mushrooms and Herbs
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious stuffing, perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. This recipe combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with earthy mushrooms and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (active and bubbly)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, mushrooms, garlic, thyme, and parsley. Cook until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked vegetable mixture with the sourdough discard. Mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff into turkey or chicken cavity, or use as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Sourdough Discard Dumplings in Creamy Chicken Stew
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious and comforting meal with these fluffy dumplings. Perfect for using up excess starter and enjoying the fruits of your labor!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Creamy Chicken Stew ingredients (see below)
Creamy Chicken Stew:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine sourdough discard, melted butter, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Gradually add chicken broth and mix until dough forms.
3. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into small squares.
4. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until they float.
5. Strain dumplings from cooking liquid and add to Creamy Chicken Stew.
Cooking Time:
– Dumplings: 5-7 minutes
– Creamy Chicken Stew: 20-25 minutes
Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Dip
Transform your sourdough discard into crispy, cheesy pretzel bites paired with a rich beer cheese dip. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
For the Pretzels:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (at room temperature)
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
For the Beer Cheese Dip:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup beer (any style)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sourdough discard, warm water, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add melted butter and mix until well combined.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and shape into small balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, beer, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
7. Serve warm pretzels with Beer Cheese Dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots with Marinara Sauce
Turn your sourdough discard into delicious garlic knots, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (at room temperature)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, garlic, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Add olive oil and mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your thumbs to create a hole in the center, stretching the dough out to form a knot.
6. Place the knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each knot.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. While the knots are still warm, brush with marinara sauce and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sourdough Discard Cornbread with Honey Butter
Make the most of your sourdough starter’s natural yeastiness by transforming its discard into a moist and flavorful cornbread, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meals. This recipe combines the earthy tang of sourdough with the sweetness of honey butter for an unbeatable treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (100% hydration)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey butter (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together sourdough starter discard, flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda in a large bowl.
3. Add honey and melted butter; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Honey Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
Mix until smooth. Spread on warm cornbread before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sourdough Discard Cheese and Herb Scones
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious batch of scones, perfect for snacking or serving alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (or other hard cheese of your choice)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, rosemary, or thyme)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard and flour. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Add cold butter and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Fold in grated cheese and chopped herbs.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times, until it comes together into a cohesive ball.
6. Pat the dough into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out scones.
7. Place scones on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Sourdough Discard Pierogi with Caramelized Onions
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious Polish-inspired treat by making these savory pierogi filled with caramelized onions. This recipe is perfect for using up excess sourdough starter and creating a unique flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, flour, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water while mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Place a tablespoon of caramelized onions in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Cook pierogi in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
9. Serve with melted butter and garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook 1 large onion over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and sweet.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sourdough Discard Soft Pretzels with Mustard Dip
Transform sourdough discard into delicious soft pretzels, perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. This recipe uses the natural starter to create a flavorful and chewy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (at room temperature)
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, warm water, and sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add flour, one cup at a time, until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your thumbs to create a hole in the center, stretching the dough into a pretzel shape.
7. Place the pretzels on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one.
8. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds or pretzel salt if desired.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
Mustard Dip:
Mix equal parts whole-grain mustard and mayonnaise for a creamy and tangy accompaniment to your soft pretzels.
Sourdough Discard Savory Dutch Baby with Gruyère
Sourdough Discard Savory Dutch Baby with Gruyère: Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this creative recipe that utilizes sourdough discard and a crispy, cheesy pancake.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, egg, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add melted butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 10-inch cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven.
5. Top with grated Gruyère cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sourdough Discard Croutons for Caesar Salad
Sourdough Discard Croutons for Caesar Salad: Elevate your classic salad with a tangy, crunchy twist!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (100% hydration)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sourdough starter discard and olive oil until well combined.
3. Add salt and stir until dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until croutons are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Allow to cool completely before using in your Caesar salad.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sourdough Discard Cheese and Jalapeño Muffins
Transform your sourdough starter’s discard into a delicious breakfast treat with these savory muffins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (active, bubbly)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sourdough starter discard, cheese, jalapeños, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
These muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast on-the-go or as a snack to fuel your day.
Sourdough Discard Bread Pudding with Caramelized Onions and Gruyère
Transform your sourdough discard into a rich, savory bread pudding, elevated by the sweetness of caramelized onions and the creaminess of Gruyère.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Caramelize the onions in butter and brown sugar over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden.
3. In a large bowl, combine sourdough discard, bread cubes, caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, salt, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown on top and set in the center.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes