The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

This Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread is a delightful way to use up your sourdough starter discard. It’s soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches or toast. Whether you’re hosting brunch or packing lunches, this bread fits any occasion seamlessly. With its quick preparation time and minimal ingredients, you can enjoy fresh homemade bread in just a few hours.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Bread
• For Garnish
• How to Make The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Step 1: Activate the Yeast
• Step 2: Combine Ingredients
• Step 3: Perform the Windowpane Test
• Step 4: First Rise
• Step 5: Shape the Loaves
• Step 6: Second Rise
• Step 7: Bake
• Step 8: Cool & Enjoy
• How to Serve The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Classic Sandwiches
• Toast Variations
• Dipping Ideas
• How to Perfect The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Best Side Dishes for The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Reheating The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread unique?
• Can I customize The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread?
• How long does The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread take to make?
• Is The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread dairy-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe allows you to make fresh bread in just a few hours, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of whole wheat and bread flour gives this sourdough discard sandwich bread a rich flavor profile that pairs well with sweet or savory toppings.
• Dairy-Free & Refined Sugar-Free: Suitable for various dietary preferences, this bread is made without any dairy or refined sugars.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: The result is a soft loaf that remains fluffy even after slicing, ideal for sandwiches.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and forgiving timing, baking this bread is accessible even for beginners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (optional)
• Mixing bowl
• Dough scraper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Loaf pans (9×5 inches)
• Kitchen towel
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading easier and saves time; however, it’s not necessary if you prefer kneading by hand.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for the dough to rise without spilling over.
• Loaf pans: Proper-sized pans ensure even baking and help maintain the shape of your loaves.

Ingredients

For this delicious Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread, you’ll need:

For the Bread

• 180g (¾ cup) warm water
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 60g (¼ cup) honey
• 120g (1 cup) whole wheat flour
• 343g (2 ½ cups) bread flour
• 180g (¾ cup) sourdough discard
• 10g (1 ½ tsp) salt
• 60g (¼ cup) olive oil

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly to activate the yeast.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the remaining ingredients to the bowl:
1. Whole wheat flour
2. Bread flour
3. Sourdough discard
4. Salt
5. Olive oil

Knead for about 15 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook or by hand until the dough is soft and pliable.

Step 3: Perform the Windowpane Test

To check if your dough is ready:
1. Stretch a small section of dough until thin enough to see light through.
2. If it tears easily, continue kneading for up to 20 minutes.
3. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before testing again.

Step 4: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a large bowl. Cover with a tea towel and let it rise in a warm place (above 80°F) until doubled in size, approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 5: Shape the Loaves

Once risen:
1. Punch down the dough gently.
2. Place it on a lightly floured surface and divide it into two equal sections.
3. Flatten each section into a rectangle.
4. Fold the top third down and sides towards the center; roll into logs pinching seams closed.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place each shaped loaf into greased loaf pans seam side down. Let rise again for about 30 minutes to 1 hour until doubled in size and above pan’s edge.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F while the loaves rise. Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes until internal temperature reaches around 190°F.

Step 8: Cool & Enjoy

Remove from pans and cool on wire racks. For softer crusts, brush tops with olive oil while still warm.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade sourdough discard sandwich bread!

How to Serve The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

This soft and fluffy sourdough discard sandwich bread is perfect for a variety of meals. Whether you’re making sandwiches for lunch or serving it as a side at dinner, there are countless ways to enjoy this delightful bread.

Classic Sandwiches

• Turkey and Avocado: Layer sliced turkey breast and creamy avocado for a quick and healthy lunch.
• Caprese Style: Stack fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a refreshing option.
• Grilled Cheese: Make a classic grilled cheese with your favorite cheese melted between two slices of this soft bread.

Toast Variations

• Avocado Toast: Smash ripe avocados on toasted slices, sprinkle with salt and chili flakes for added flavor.
• Nut Butter Spread: Slather almond or peanut butter on toasted bread and top with banana slices or honey.
• Garlic Bread: Toast slices with garlic butter for a delicious side to pasta dishes.

Dipping Ideas

• Soup Companion: Serve warm slices alongside your favorite soup for a comforting meal.
• Bruschetta Base: Top toasted slices with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil for an appetizer.

How to Perfect The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

To achieve the best results when making this sourdough discard sandwich bread, follow these tips closely. They will help ensure your bread turns out soft, fluffy, and flavorful.

• Knead Properly: Ensure you knead the dough until it passes the windowpane test. This develops gluten for a better texture.
• Watch the Rise Time: Let the dough rise until it’s doubled in size. This crucial step affects the final softness of the bread.
• Use Warm Water: Make sure the water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast effectively without killing it.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking to ensure even cooking and rise during baking.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the loaves to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to maintain their structure.
• Store Properly: Keep your bread in an airtight container or bag at room temperature to retain its freshness longer.

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Best Side Dishes for The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

This versatile sourdough discard sandwich bread pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some suggestions that will complement your meal beautifully.

1. Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens tossed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the bread’s texture.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables add flavor and nutrition alongside your sandwiches.
3. Chili Con Carne: A hearty bowl of chili makes for an excellent pairing on colder days; serve it with warm slices of bread.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch next to soft sandwich bread.
5. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits adds a sweet touch that balances savory sandwiches perfectly.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad loaded with veggies can be an easy side dish that complements any sandwich creation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your sourdough discard sandwich bread turns out perfectly, be aware of these common mistakes that many home bakers make.

• Not activating the yeast properly: If the yeast isn’t bubbly after sitting with warm water and honey, it may not be alive. Always check the yeast before mixing it into the dough.
• Over-kneading the dough: While kneading is essential, overdoing it can lead to tough bread. Knead just until the dough is soft and passes the windowpane test.
• Skipping the rise time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for a fluffy texture. Don’t rush this step; let it double in size for best results.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect bread structure. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy for perfect baking.
• Ignoring ingredient measurements: Baking is precise. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially when measuring flour and liquids.
• Not using enough flour when shaping: Too little flour can cause sticking and shape issues. Dust your work surface adequately while shaping loaves.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or plastic wrap to keep moisture in.
• Bread can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator without drying out.

Freezing The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

• Wrap loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Bread can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat wrapped bread for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Toast slices on medium heat in a skillet until golden brown.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread unique?

This recipe utilizes sourdough discard, making it eco-friendly while producing soft and fluffy bread without any complicated processes.

Can I customize The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread?

Yes! You can swap honey for maple syrup or adjust flours according to your preference, such as using all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat.

How long does The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread take to make?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 3 hours and 5 minutes, including rising time.

Is The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread dairy-free?

Absolutely! This recipe contains no dairy ingredients, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread is not only simple but also adaptable to fit various tastes and dietary needs. Its quick preparation makes it a great choice for fresh homemade bread any day of the week. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors!