Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe
Tender, spongy, and full of flavor, this Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe is a delightful way to use your sourdough discard. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a comforting side dish, this focaccia is perfect for any occasion. Its unique texture and rich flavors make it an exceptional choice for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginners.
- Flavorful: The combination of sourdough discard and olive oil creates a deeply flavorful bread that elevates any meal.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your focaccia with various toppings such as tomatoes, fresh herbs, or even fruits.
- Perfect Texture: Achieve that ideal balance of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside with ease.
- Great for Sharing: With a generous yield of 12 servings, this focaccia is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your Sourdough Discard Focaccia, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or hands for mixing
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheets (2)
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Measuring scale
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows enough space to mix all ingredients without spilling.
- Plastic wrap: Helps retain moisture during resting periods, promoting better dough rise.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 452 grams water
- 7 grams instant yeast (1 packet)
- 42 grams honey (or cane sugar)
- 170 grams sourdough discard
- 540 grams bread flour
- 90 grams whole wheat flour
- 12 grams salt
- 56 grams olive oil
For Topping
- 7 grams flaky sea salt
- Tomatoes (sliced)
- Fresh rosemary
- Onions (sliced)
- Ground pistachios
- Lemons (sliced)
- Olives
- Ground pepper
- Garlic
- Grapes
How to Make Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix the water, instant yeast, honey, and sourdough discard until no traces of discard remain.
- Fold in the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until all flour is hydrated.
Step 2: Knead the Olive Oil
- Knead the olive oil into the dough until absorbed. It will gradually feel less greasy as it absorbs the oil.
Step 3: Let it Rest
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest in a warm place for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Stretch and Fold
- After resting, complete one set of stretch and folds:
- With the dough in the bowl, pick up its side closest to you using your fingertips.
- Stretch it out as much as you can without tearing and fold it over itself.
- Turn the bowl 90 degrees; repeat three more times.
Step 5: Second Rest Period
- Cover with plastic wrap again and let rest for another 15 minutes.
- Complete one more set of stretch and folds before covering again.
Step 6: First Rise
- Allow the dough to rise at room temperature until doubled in volume (about 30 to 45 minutes).
Step 7: Prep Baking Sheets
- Line two 9 by 13 baking sheets with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Coat each sheet’s bottom with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Step 8: Second Rise
- Divide the dough into two portions and transfer each onto prepared pans.
- Cover with plastic wrap; let rest for an additional 15 minutes.
Step 9: Shape the Dough
- Stretch each portion out to fit edges of pans; cover again and let rise for another 20 minutes or until bubbly.
Step 10: Assemble & Top
- Pour about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over each portion of dough; spread using your palm.
- Dimple the dough all over using your fingertips until flat.
- Sprinkle sea salt and arrange desired toppings on each portion.
Step 11: Bake
- Bake in preheated oven for approximately 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 12: Enjoy!
- Transfer baked focaccias to a cooling rack; let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 13: Store Leftovers
- This focaccia tastes best fresh but will keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
With this Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe, you’ll create a delicious bread that’s sure to impress!
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe
Sourdough Discard Focaccia is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer or a main course, there are countless options for pairing this delicious bread.
With Dips and Spreads
- Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: A classic pairing where you can dip your focaccia for a burst of flavor.
- Hummus: Creamy hummus complements the bread’s texture beautifully.
- Pesto: Spread some fresh pesto over slices for a vibrant taste.
As a Sandwich Base
- Caprese Sandwich: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a delightful Italian treat.
- Turkey and Avocado: Create a hearty sandwich with slices of turkey and ripe avocado.
Accompanied by Salads
- Greek Salad: The saltiness of feta and olives pairs excellently with the focaccia.
- Caesar Salad: Enjoy alongside a classic Caesar salad for a satisfying meal.
With Cheese and Charcuterie
- Cheese Board: Serve alongside various cheeses, cured meats, and fruits for an elegant touch.
- Antipasto Platter: Combine with marinated vegetables, olives, and more for an Italian-inspired feast.
How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe
Perfecting your Sourdough Discard Focaccia is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your focaccia turns out perfectly every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your yeast and flour for the best results.
- Knead Properly: Make sure to knead the dough until it’s smooth; this helps develop gluten for better texture.
- Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow enough time for both rises to enhance the flavor and texture of your focaccia.
- Experiment with Toppings: Get creative! Try different herbs, cheeses, or vegetables based on your preference.
- Preheat Your Oven Well: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve that perfect crust.
- Cool Before Cutting: Allow the focaccia to cool before slicing; this helps maintain its structure.
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe
Sourdough Discard Focaccia pairs well with many side dishes that elevate its delightful flavors. Here are some great options you can consider serving alongside:
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies in olive oil and roast them until tender. Their sweetness complements the focaccia beautifully.
- Bruschetta: Top slices of toasted bread with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil for a refreshing starter.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds brightness to your meal.
- Soup of Your Choice: Pair with minestrone or tomato soup for a comforting combination that warms you up.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa offer a nutritious side packed with flavor.
- Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad with nuts and vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the focaccia.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sourdough Discard Focaccia can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can hinder your success. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision. This ensures the right texture and flavor.
- Skipping the stretch and fold technique: This step is essential for gluten development. Skipping it may result in a dense focaccia.
- Ignoring resting times: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for proper fermentation. Be patient; this enhances flavor.
- Overcrowding toppings: While it’s tempting to add lots of toppings, too many can weigh down the bread. Stick to a few quality ingredients.
- Not preheating your oven: Always preheat your oven fully before baking. This helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container. This keeps the focaccia fresh and prevents it from drying out.
- It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe
- Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This helps restore its original texture.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may become chewy.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe?
A Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe utilizes leftover sourdough starter, giving the bread unique flavors while reducing waste.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but the texture may differ slightly. Bread flour provides more structure due to its higher protein content.
What toppings work best on focaccia?
You can use various toppings like sliced tomatoes, olives, fresh herbs, or even caramelized onions. Choose what you love!
How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?
Your focaccia should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and use plant-based oil instead of olive oil if preferred.
Final Thoughts
This Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy homemade bread while utilizing sourdough discard effectively. Its tender texture and customizable toppings cater to all tastes, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try different herbs and vegetables based on your preference!
Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Sourdough Discard Focaccia is not just a delicious bread; it’s a smart way to use your sourdough discard while crafting a fluffy, flavorful treat. This easy recipe yields a soft and airy focaccia with a crispy crust, perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. With endless topping options, you can customize each batch to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it dipped in olive oil or as a base for sandwiches, this focaccia will impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 452 grams water
- 7 grams instant yeast
- 42 grams honey
- 170 grams sourdough discard
- 540 grams bread flour
- 90 grams whole wheat flour
- 12 grams salt
- 56 grams olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine water, yeast, honey, and sourdough discard until smooth.
- Add bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt; mix until hydrated.
- Knead in olive oil until absorbed.
- Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
- Perform stretch and fold technique; repeat resting and folding process after another 15 minutes.
- Allow dough to rise at room temperature until doubled (30-45 minutes).
- Preheat oven to 425°F and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper and olive oil.
- Divide dough into two portions; shape to fit pans and let rise again for 20 minutes.
- Dimple the dough, add olive oil and toppings; bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 265mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
