why make this recipe
Making Perfect Sourdough Discard French Bread is a great way to use leftover sourdough starter. This recipe not only reduces waste but also creates delicious bread with a lovely crust and soft interior. You will enjoy the homemade taste, and it’s a fun process that can get the whole family involved. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or even just butter!
how to make Perfect Sourdough Discard French Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar until well combined.
- Add the yeast and let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in the salt and gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the loaf in a greased pan, cover, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool before slicing. Enjoy your homemade sourdough bread!
how to serve Perfect Sourdough Discard French Bread
You can serve this bread warm right out of the oven, or let it cool and slice it for sandwiches. It’s also perfect with butter, jams, or alongside your favorite soup or stew. You can even toast it for breakfast!
how to store Perfect Sourdough Discard French Bread
Store the bread in a bread box or a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the freezer. Just thaw it when you’re ready to eat!
tips to make Perfect Sourdough Discard French Bread
- Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best results.
- If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as you knead.
- If you want a crustier top, you can place a pan of water in the oven while baking.
variation
You can add herbs, cheese, or olives to the dough for different flavors. Experimenting with spices can also add an exciting twist to this classic bread.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture might be denser.
Q2: What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, your yeast may be inactive, so make sure to check its expiration date and ensure your water is warm but not too hot.
Q3: Can I make this bread without a sourdough starter?
Yes, you can, but just skip the sourdough starter and increase the yeast to about 2 tablespoons for a similar result.