Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread Recipe: Simple & Delicious
Introduction: A Delicious Way to Reduce Waste
Have you ever been left with sourdough discard and wondered what to do with it? That little bit of leftover dough from your sourdough starter can feel like a waste, but instead of throwing it out, why not turn it into something delicious? By transforming sourdough discard into sandwich bread, you not only reduce waste but also create a loaf that’s soft, flavorful, and perfect for a wide range of uses.
Making sourdough discard sandwich bread is easier than you might think, and with just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a loaf that’s full of tangy flavor and a soft crumb. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the process, helping you make the most out of your sourdough starter discard.
So, if you’re ready to discover a new way to use sourdough discard, grab your ingredients, and let’s get baking!
Table of Contents
Why Use Sourdough Discard for Sandwich Bread?
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to understand why sourdough discard is such a great ingredient for making sandwich bread. Here’s why using sourdough discard will not only improve the flavor of your bread but also make your kitchen more sustainable.
1. Waste Reduction
Every time you feed your sourdough starter, you end up with a portion of discard. If you’re not using it, it can pile up and eventually go to waste. Instead of tossing that sourdough discard, you can repurpose it into something delicious. Using discard for bread is an excellent way to reduce kitchen waste, while also contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.
2. Natural Leavening
Sourdough discard contains natural yeast and bacteria that help to leaven your bread. This gives your bread a unique flavor that you can’t get from commercial yeast alone. The wild yeast in the discard not only provides natural leavening but also contributes to the bread’s texture, making it airier and lighter.
3. Flavor Boost
Sourdough discard is naturally tangy, and that flavor translates into the bread itself. When used in sandwich bread, it imparts a mild sourness that complements the bread’s soft, fluffy texture. It’s the perfect balance between rich flavor and lightness.
4. Texture
Thanks to the long fermentation process of sourdough, the discard has a bit of a chewy, moist texture. When added to the dough, it creates a softer, more flavorful crumb. This texture is perfect for making sandwich bread that holds up well to fillings like meats, cheeses, and spreads.
Ingredients for Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
Now that you know why sourdough discard is such a great choice for sandwich bread, let’s take a look at what you’ll need for the recipe. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and you probably already have most of them in your kitchen.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sourdough discard | 1 cup (240g) |
| Bread flour | 2 ½ cups (300g) |
| Water | ¾ cup (180ml) |
| Salt | 1 ½ tsp (9g) |
| Olive oil or butter | 2 tbsp (30g) |
| Sugar (optional) | 1 tbsp (12g) |
| Instant yeast | 1 tsp (3g) |
Ingredient Substitutions
You don’t have to worry if you don’t have all the ingredients on hand—there are plenty of substitutions you can make without compromising the taste of your sourdough discard sandwich bread:
- Flour: If you don’t have bread flour, you can use all-purpose flour. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which makes the bread chewier and more structured, but all-purpose flour will still give you a soft loaf.
- Oil: Feel free to use any neutral oil, like vegetable or canola, or you can replace it with melted butter for a richer taste.
- Sweetener: If you don’t have sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup. However, keep in mind that these may slightly alter the flavor of the bread.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s go over the simple steps involved in making this delicious sandwich bread from sourdough discard. The process is straightforward and doesn’t require a lot of fancy equipment or skills.
Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, water, and olive oil (or butter). If you’re using sugar, add that too. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth. The discard should dissolve easily into the water, creating a wet base for your bread dough.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Once the wet ingredients are well mixed, gradually add the bread flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir the mixture until the flour is fully incorporated and the dough begins to form. You may need to use your hands to bring everything together.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Begin kneading the dough by folding it over itself and pushing it down with your palms. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little extra flour, but be careful not to add too much, as it can affect the bread’s texture.
Step 4: First Rise
Once the dough is well kneaded, place it in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The length of the rise time can vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen, but aim for the dough to be soft and airy.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. To do this, fold the edges of the dough inward and then roll it tightly from one end to the other, making sure the seams are pinched together.
Step 6: Second Rise
Place the shaped loaf into a greased loaf pan. Cover the pan with a towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for another hour. The dough should puff up again, filling the pan and becoming light and airy.
Step 7: Preheat Oven and Bake
While the dough is doing its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has finished rising, place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bread is done when the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check the internal temperature with a thermometer—your bread should reach 190°F (88°C).
Step 8: Cool the Bread
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. Let the bread cool completely before slicing, as it will continue to cook and firm up as it cools.
Tips for Perfect Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
While the process for making sourdough discard sandwich bread is straightforward, here are some helpful tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time:
- Knead Thoroughly: The kneading process is essential to developing the gluten in the dough, which gives the bread its structure. Be sure to knead for the full 8-10 minutes.
- Monitor the Temperature: Bread dough rises best in a warm environment. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough near a warm oven or use the “proof” setting on your oven.
- Avoid Overproofing: Don’t let your dough rise for too long, as overproofing can cause the bread to collapse in the oven. If it’s too puffy, the bread may lack structure.
- Use a Thermometer: To ensure your bread is fully cooked, check the internal temperature with a kitchen thermometer. This step will guarantee that your bread is baked to perfection.
How to Store Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
After all that hard work, you’ll want to store your freshly baked sourdough discard sandwich bread properly to keep it fresh.
- Room Temperature: Store the bread in a bread box or airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure the bread has cooled completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
- Freezing: If you want to keep the bread for longer, slice it and freeze it. Place the slices in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To use, simply toast the slices directly from the freezer.
FAQs About Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
Can I Use Sourdough Starter Instead of Discard?
Yes! You can substitute sourdough starter for sourdough discard. Just keep in mind that your bread may have a slightly different texture and flavor. Make sure your starter is active and bubbly for the best results.
What Else Can I Make with Sourdough Discard?
Aside from sandwich bread, there are many other delicious recipes you can make with sourdough discard. Try sourdough discard crackers, pancakes, waffles, or even pizza dough for a creative way to use up your discard.
How Can I Make My Sourdough Discard Bread Softer?
To make your sourdough
discard sandwich bread even softer, add a little more butter or oil to the dough. You can also try using a bit of milk or honey to enrich the crumb.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
Making sourdough discard sandwich bread is a simple yet rewarding process that transforms leftover starter into a loaf of soft, flavorful bread. Whether you use it for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to your meals, this bread is a great way to reduce food waste while treating yourself to a homemade delight.
Now that you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to bake your own loaf. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the delicious results. Happy baking!
Call to Action
Ready to get started? Gather your sourdough discard and ingredients, and give this recipe a try. Share your results with us, and let us know how your sourdough discard sandwich bread turned out!
