Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

A delicious recipe for Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is a wonderful way to embrace the unique flavor of sourdough while minimizing waste. This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or as a delightful side to any meal. The garlic flavor combined with the soft, pull-apart texture makes it a standout choice that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies the process of making bread, allowing you to enjoy fresh garlic pull-apart bread without extensive baking skills.
• Great Use of Sourdough Discard: Turn your sourdough discard into something delicious rather than throwing it away. It’s a fantastic way to reduce waste!
• Flavor Packed: Infused with garlic and fresh herbs, this bread brings rich flavors that complement any meal or can be enjoyed on its own.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack. Serve it warm with butter or as part of a charcuterie board.
• Fun to Share: The pull-apart style makes it fun for guests to dig in, making it great for parties and gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, gather some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen scale (optional)
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: This tool saves you time and effort by kneading the dough effectively, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Kitchen scale: While optional, it offers precise measurements for dividing the dough evenly, resulting in uniform pieces that bake consistently.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup non-dairy or regular dairy milk (warmed to 110℉)
• 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 2 cups + 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 200 grams (about ¾ cup) sourdough discard (unfed, at room temperature)
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley or rosemary (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 7 Tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley or rosemary (chopped)
• 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• flaky sea salt (for topping)

How to Make Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Step 1: Mix Ingredients

Combine the warmed milk, instant yeast, and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Add the flour, sourdough discard, beaten egg, chopped herbs, salt, and garlic powder. With the mixer on low speed:
1. Slowly add 2 Tablespoons of melted butter.
2. Increase speed to medium and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a smooth work surface. Knead until you achieve a smooth consistency, about 3–4 minutes. The dough should feel slightly tacky but not sticky:
If necessary, add more flour or milk (1 Tablespoon / 10 grams at a time) until you reach your desired texture.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough into a large greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap:
Let rise for about 60–90 minutes until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare Topping

While your dough rises, prepare the topping:
In a small bowl, combine softened butter with chopped herbs, garlic powder, and salt:
1. Mix until well combined.
2. Set aside 1 Tablespoon of this mixture for brushing on after baking.
3. Grease your loaf pan and set aside.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Once risen:
1. Turn the dough onto a smooth work surface and divide into 12 equal-sized pieces.
2. Flatten each piece into about a 4-inch diameter circle and spread with 1–2 teaspoons of the butter mixture.
3. Fold each piece in half like a taco and place them fold-side down in your prepared baking pan.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel:
Allow it to rise for another 30–45 minutes, until puffed but not exceeding the edges of the pan.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉ while waiting for the second rise to complete.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, then cover with aluminum foil:
Continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes until golden brown.
Use a kitchen thermometer; you’re aiming for an internal temperature of about 200℉.

While still warm:
1. Brush with remaining butter mixture.
2. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
3. Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then serve warm!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer or a side, there are many ways to serve this delightful bread.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: A classic combination that enhances the flavors of the bread.
• Garlic Butter: For garlic lovers, this pairs perfectly for an extra burst of flavor.
• Herbed Cream Cheese: Spread on warm pieces for a creamy and savory treat.

Enjoy as an Appetizer

• Cheese Platter: Serve alongside a variety of cheeses to create a satisfying starter.
• Charcuterie Board: Add to a board with cured meats, olives, and nuts for a gourmet experience.

Serve with Soups and Salads

• Tomato Basil Soup: The bread complements the tangy soup beautifully.
• Caesar Salad: A refreshing salad that pairs well with the rich flavors of the bread.

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How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

To ensure your Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Warm Milk: This activates the yeast effectively, leading to better rise.
• Knead Dough Well: Proper kneading creates gluten structure for a fluffy texture.
• Check Dough Consistency: It should be smooth and slightly tacky; adjust flour or milk as needed.
• Allow Enough Rise Time: Giving dough ample time to rise improves flavor and texture.
• Monitor Baking Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions.
• Cool Before Serving: Let the bread cool slightly before serving to enhance its flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread pairs excellently with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled seasonal veggies add color and nutrition.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a refreshing side.
3. French Onion Soup: The savory broth goes wonderfully with garlic bread’s richness.
4. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy dip that’s perfect for pulling apart with the bread.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs bring heartiness to your table.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light, nutritious salad that balances the richness of the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Incorrect Yeast Activation: Not warming the milk properly can lead to inactive yeast. Always ensure your milk is warmed to about 110℉ before adding the yeast and sugar.

• Overworking the Dough: Kneading too long can make the bread tough. Aim for just 3-4 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.

• Ignoring Rise Time: Skipping or shortening the rise time may result in dense bread. Allow at least 60-90 minutes for proper dough expansion.

• Improper Dough Division: Unevenly dividing the dough pieces can lead to inconsistent baking. Use a kitchen scale for accurate portioning.

• Skipping the Topping: Forgetting the herb and garlic topping means missing out on flavor. Don’t skip this step for maximum taste!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag.
• This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on high for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread:

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, using all-purpose flour works perfectly well in this recipe. It will still yield a tasty pull-apart bread.

How do I know if my sourdough discard is good?

Your sourdough discard should smell pleasant, not sour or off-putting. If it has an unusual odor or shows signs of mold, discard it.

What can I serve with Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread?

This delightful bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or as a side dish at dinner.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add cheese, bacon bits, or different herbs according to your preference. Get creative with flavors!

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy milk and butter with non-dairy alternatives, and skip the egg or use a flax egg instead.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it based on your preferences, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated later, this recipe is sure to delight both family and guests alike!