Sourdough Discard: What is it and how to use it
Sourdough discard is a common term among sourdough bakers, referring to the portion of your starter that you remove during the feeding process. While it may seem wasteful to toss this mixture, it can actually be a versatile ingredient in your kitchen! Let’s explore what sourdough discard is and how you can make the most of it.
What is Sourdough Discard?
When you feed your sourdough starter, you typically discard a portion to maintain the right balance of yeast and bacteria. This discarded mixture contains flour, water, and active cultures, making it useful for various recipes. The term "discard" doesn’t mean it’s useless—in fact, it’s full of flavor and can enhance many baked goods! You can also revive discard to create another starter!
How to Use Discard
Here are some delicious ways to utilize your sourdough discard:
Pancakes and Waffles: Incorporate sourdough discard into your pancake or waffle batter for a tangy twist. Just replace some of the flour and liquid in your favorite recipe with the discard.
Bread and Muffins: Add discard to bread dough or muffin batters for extra flavor and moisture. It works well in quick breads, adding a unique taste.
Crackers: Mix sourdough discard with seasonings, roll it out thin, and bake to make crispy crackers. They’re a great snack on their own or with cheese.
Pizza Dough: Use your discard as part of the dough for homemade pizza. It adds flavor and can improve the texture of the crust.
Soups and Sauces: Stir some discard into soups or sauces for added depth and a slight tanginess. It can also act as a thickener.
Storing Discard
If you don’t have immediate plans for your discard, you can store it in the refrigerator. Just keep it in an airtight container for up to a week or longer. When you leave discard in the refrigerator it can develop a gray colored liquid on top, this is called hooch. You can pour it off or stir it in to create a more sour flavor. You can also freeze it for longer storage; simply thaw it when you’re ready to use it.
Conclusion
Sourdough discard is a valuable byproduct of maintaining your sourdough starter. Rather than tossing it away, get creative in the kitchen! From pancakes to pizza dough, there are countless ways to incorporate this flavorful ingredient into your meals. So next time you feed your starter, remember to save that discard and enjoy the delicious possibilities! Happy baking!
