Flour Water and Time Create a Versatile Delightful Ingredient
Baking is a rewarding journey especially with sourdough and that begins with nurturing a lively sourdough starter. Check out an earlier post on how to create starter. During the maintenance of your starter, you will inevitably encounter sourdough discard. But what exactly is it, and how can you make the most of it? In this post, we’ll explore what sourdough discard is, how to save it, and creative ways to use it in your kitchen.
What is Sourdough Discard?
Sourdough discard is the portion of your sourdough starter that is removed before feeding. This process ensures that the remaining starter has enough food (flour and water) to stay healthy and active. While it may seem wasteful to throw away part of your starter, this discard can actually be put to great use in a variety of recipes, adding a delightful tang, optimal moisture and nutritional benefits.
How to Save Sourdough Discard
Instead of throwing away your sourdough discard, you can easily save it for future use.
Here’s How:
1: Container
Choose a clean, airtight container to store your discard. A glass jar with a lid works well.
2: Refrigeration
Keep the container in the refrigerator to slow down fermentation and prevent spoilage. The discard can be stored for up to a week according to health standards. However I can tell you I have kept my discard in the fridge for months at a time. Then pull it out only when I need and plan to use it for recipes and pull it out to feed to prep for baking with active starter. Please do what you feel comfortable with for your family!
3: Labeling
Clearly label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. If you have multiple batches, labeling will help you use the oldest discard first.
4: Combine Batches
You can combine discard from multiple feedings, but try to use it within a week for the best results. Again, do what you are comfortable with for your family.
How to Use Sourdough Discard
Sourdough discard is incredibly versatile and can be used in both savory and sweet recipes. Honey Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookies are a family favorite in our house!
here are some Other delicious and creative ways to use your sourdough discard:
Sourdough Pancakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup Sourdough Discard
- 1 Egg
- 2 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1 cup flour
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients until smooth
- Cook on a greased skillet over medium heat until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown
Nutrition
Sourdough Waffles
Ingredients
- 1 cup Sourdough Discard
- 1 Egg
- 2 tbsp Melted Butter
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Baking Soda
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1 cup Flour
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients until combined
- Pour into a preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions
Notes
Nutrition
Sourdough Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 1 cup Sourdough Discard
- 3 Ripe Bananas
- 1/2 cup Melted Butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 Eggs
- 1 tsp Vanilla
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 2 cups Flour
Instructions
- Mash bananas and mix with butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla
- Stir in discard, baking soda, salt, and flour
- Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean
Nutrition
Tips for Using Sourdough Discard
1: Flavor Profile
The tangy flavor of sourdough discard can enhance both sweet and savory recipes. Adjust sugar or salt accordingly.
2: Hydration Level
The consistency of your discard might vary. Adjust the liquid content in your recipes to achieve the desired dough or batter consistency.
3: Room Temperature
Bring refrigerated discard to room temperature before using it in recipes for better incorporation.
4: Experimentation
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Sourdough discard can be added to many recipes that call for flour and liquid.
Epilogue
Having sourdough discard is a valuable and versatile byproduct of maintaining your sourdough starter. By saving and using it creatively, you can reduce waste and enjoy a variety of delicious baked goods. From pancakes to crackers, the possibilities are endless. Embrace the tangy flavor and unique benefits of sourdough discard in your kitchen.
Happy baking!
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