Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Published:

by Jessica

This Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread is a delightful way to use leftover sourdough starter. It combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the lightness of commercial yeast, resulting in a soft and tender loaf. Ideal for any occasion, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. Its straightforward process makes it accessible for bakers of all levels, ensuring that you can create a delicious loaf without any fuss.

Sourdough Discard Sandwich BreadPIN THIS!PIN THIS!
Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: This recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
  • Uses Leftover Starter: Make good use of your sourdough discard instead of tossing it out.
  • Versatile Bread: Perfect for sandwiches, French toast, or just slathered with butter.
  • Soft Texture: The combination of commercial yeast and sourdough gives a wonderfully soft crumb.
  • Flavorful: The hint of sourdough brings depth to the simple bread taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything in place will make the process enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or fork
  • Kitchen scale (for accuracy)
  • 9×5-inch loaf pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Damp kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

  • Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough easier with less effort required.
  • Kitchen scale: Ensures precise measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

This easy sourdough discard sandwich bread recipe combines leftover starter with commercial yeast for a soft, tender loaf. Perfect for everyday sandwiches, it has a light texture and a simple process that makes it beginner-friendly.

For the Bread

  • 120g (½ cup) lukewarm water
  • 120g (½ cup) lukewarm milk
  • 7g (2 ½ tsp) instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
  • 25g (2 tbsp) granulated white sugar
  • 406g (3 ¼ cups) bread flour or strong all-purpose flour
  • 100g (approx. ½ cup) sourdough discard
  • 8g (1 ½ tsp) salt
  • 45g (3 tbsp) room-temperature butter
SourdoughPIN THIS!

How to Make Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Step 1: Mixing & First Rise

In a large bowl, combine lukewarm water, milk, sugar, and yeast. If using active dry yeast, let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy; if using instant yeast, proceed immediately. Add the flour, sourdough discard, and salt. Mix with a fork or wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Add the softened butter and knead it into the dough by hand until fully combined.

  1. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
  2. Knead for 8-10 minutes until soft, smooth, and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
  3. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.
  4. Cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
  5. Optional cold-proof: Refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor and texture.

Step 2: Shaping & Second Rise

Punch down the dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. Flatten the dough into a rectangle slightly shorter than the length of the loaf pan.

  1. Fold the top third of the dough toward the center and press along the fold to seal.
  2. Repeat this folding and sealing process two more times.
  3. Place the shaped dough seam-side down in the lined loaf pan.
  4. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
  5. Let rise until it doubles in size and rises about 1 inch above the pan’s rim.

Step 3: Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) while the dough rises.

  1. Bake for about 35 minutes until deep golden brown.
  2. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil after 20 minutes.
  3. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped and reaches an internal temperature of 200°F (94°C).
  4. Remove from the pan and cool completely before slicing.

Step 4: Storing

Store your Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days or freeze it for up to three months to preserve its freshness!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Sourdough discard sandwich bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or planning a cozy dinner, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

Classic Sandwiches

  • Turkey and Avocado: Layer sliced turkey and creamy avocado for a nutritious meal.
  • BLT: Combine crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes for a classic favorite.
  • Grilled Cheese: Melt your favorite cheese between two slices for a comforting treat.

Toast Variations

  • Avocado Toast: Smash ripe avocado on toasted bread and top with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
  • Nut Butter Delight: Spread almond or peanut butter and add banana slices for a filling snack.
  • Tomato Bruschetta: Top toasted slices with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar for an elegant appetizer.

Breakfast Ideas

  • French Toast: Dip in egg mixture and pan-fry for a sweet breakfast option.
  • Breakfast Sandwich: Add scrambled eggs and cheese for a hearty morning meal.

How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Making perfect sourdough discard sandwich bread is easy with the right tips. Here are some helpful ideas to ensure your loaf turns out great every time.

  • Bold ingredient measurement: Always use a kitchen scale for accuracy in measuring ingredients.
  • Bold proper kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps develop gluten for better texture.
  • Bold temperature control: Keep your dough in a warm place during rising to encourage fermentation.
  • Bold avoid overproofing: Watch the dough closely; overproofed bread can collapse while baking.
  • Bold cooling time: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure.
SourdoughPIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Pairing side dishes with your sourdough discard sandwich bread can elevate any meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this delightful loaf.

  1. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide a warm, hearty side that’s easy to prepare.
  3. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips offer a satisfying contrast to soft sandwich bread.
  4. Soup of Your Choice: A bowl of tomato or chicken soup pairs beautifully with sandwiches.
  5. Pickles or Olives: These tangy sides enhance flavors and add a bit of crunch.
  6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit mix balances the savory notes of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sourdough discard sandwich bread can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your water and milk are lukewarm. Cold ingredients can hinder yeast activation, resulting in a dense loaf.
  • Not measuring accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Inaccurate ingredient ratios can affect the dough’s consistency and rise.
  • Overproofing the dough: Be mindful of the rising time. If you let the dough rise too long, it can collapse during baking, leading to a flat loaf.
  • Skipping the kneading: Kneading is crucial for gluten development. Skipping this step may result in a dense texture rather than a light and airy bread.
  • Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven properly. Baking at incorrect temperatures can lead to uneven cooking and undesirable crusts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Keep the sourdough discard sandwich bread in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Make sure it is completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

  • Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
  • This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and warm the bread for about 10 minutes until it’s heated through.
  • Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds. Add a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  • Stovetop: Heat slices on a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side for a crisp texture.
SourdoughPIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sourdough discard?

Sourdough discard refers to the portion of sourdough starter that is removed before feeding the remaining starter. It can be used in various recipes, including this sandwich bread.

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

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for bread flour. However, using bread flour will yield a slightly chewier texture due to its higher protein content.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel puffy. A good test is to gently poke it; if the indentation remains, it’s ready for shaping.

Can I make this sourdough discard sandwich bread without commercial yeast?

While commercial yeast helps speed up the process, you can omit it and rely solely on your sourdough starter. However, this may increase the rising time significantly.

Final Thoughts

This sourdough discard sandwich bread recipe is not only simple but also versatile, making it an ideal choice for everyday meals. You can customize it by adding herbs or spices for extra flavor or even include seeds for added crunch. Give this recipe a try and enjoy delicious homemade sandwiches!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Jessica
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 slices 1x

Description

Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread is a delightful way to transform leftover sourdough starter into a soft, tender loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh with butter. This easy-to-follow recipe combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the lightness of commercial yeast, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. With a straightforward preparation process, you can create this delicious bread in no time. Whether you’re serving turkey and avocado sandwiches or indulging in French toast, this versatile loaf will elevate your meals.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 120g lukewarm water
  • 120g lukewarm milk
  • 7g instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
  • 25g granulated sugar
  • 406g bread flour or strong all-purpose flour
  • 100g sourdough discard
  • 8g salt
  • 45g room-temperature butter

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm water, milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit if using active dry yeast until foamy.
  2. Add flour, sourdough discard, and salt; mix until shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer until dough is smooth and elastic (about 8-10 minutes).
  4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled.
  5. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf; place seam-side down in a lined loaf pan.
  6. Let rise again until it doubles and rises above the pan rim.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for about 35 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Cool completely before slicing.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 60g)
  • Calories: 165
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 130mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Share to...