Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Tender, spongy, and full of flavor, this Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe is easy to make and perfect for both beginners and experienced sourdough bakers. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, this focaccia elevates any meal with its unique texture and delightful taste. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up your sourdough discard!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious focaccia.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize with your favorite toppings like fresh herbs, vegetables, or cheese.
• Incredible Flavor: The fermentation from the sourdough discard adds depth and richness that store-bought bread can’t match.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields enough focaccia to serve a crowd, making it ideal for parties or family meals.
• Great Texture: Enjoy a crusty exterior with a soft, airy interior that’s perfect for dipping or sandwiches.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheets (two 9 by 13 inches)
• Measuring scale (for accuracy)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows enough space for mixing and kneading the dough without spills.
• Plastic wrap: Helps retain moisture during the resting periods, ensuring a good rise in the dough.
• Baking sheets: Proper-sized baking sheets ensure even cooking and allow for easy handling of the focaccia.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe:

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 Toppings

• 7 grams flaky sea salt
• Sliced tomatoes
• Fresh rosemary
• Sliced onions
• Ground pistachios
• Sliced lemons
• Olives
• Ground pepper
• Garlic
• Grapes

How to Make Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Mix the water, instant yeast, honey, and sourdough discard in a large bowl until no traces of discard remain.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Fold in the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until all flour is hydrated.

Step 3: Knead in Olive Oil

Knead the olive oil into the dough until absorbed. It will feel less greasy as it incorporates.

Step 4: First Rest Period

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for 15 minutes.

Step 5: Stretch and Fold Technique

After resting, complete one set of stretch and folds:
1. With dough in the bowl, pick up one side nearest you using your fingertips.
2. Stretch it out without tearing and fold it over itself.
3. Turn the bowl 90 degrees and repeat three more times.

Step 6: Second Rest Period

Cover with plastic wrap again and let rest for another 15 minutes.

Step 7: Second Stretch and Fold

Complete one more set of stretch and folds. Cover again with plastic wrap.

Step 8: First Rise

Let the dough rise at room temperature until doubled in volume (about 30 to 45 minutes).

Step 9: Prep Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Coat with about one tablespoon (14 grams) of olive oil each. Preheat oven to 425°F.

Step 10: Second Rise

Divide dough into two portions. Transfer each portion onto prepared pans; cover with plastic wrap for another 15 minutes.

Step 11: Shape Dough

Stretch each portion of dough to fill the edges of the pan. Cover again to rise for another 20 minutes until bubbly.

Step 12: Assemble Toppings

Pour about one tablespoon (14 grams) of olive oil over each portion of dough. Spread using your hand; then dimple all over with your fingertips.

Step 13: Add Seasoning

Sprinkle sea salt on top along with any desired toppings.

Step 14: Bake

Transfer baking sheets to oven; bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 15: Cool & Serve

Transfer focaccias to a cooling rack; cool for at least ten minutes before slicing—longer if using for sandwiches.

Step 16: Store Leftovers

Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate leftover slices if they have toppings.

This Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe is not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to reduce waste while enjoying homemade bread!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Sourdough Discard Focaccia is a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or alongside a main dish, there are plenty of delicious options to consider.

As a Standalone Snack

• Serve warm: Freshly baked focaccia is best enjoyed warm from the oven, allowing for the flavors to shine.
• Drizzle with olive oil: A simple drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the taste and adds richness.

With Dips

• Hummus: Creamy hummus pairs perfectly with the texture of focaccia for a satisfying snack.
• Marinara sauce: Use marinara as a dipping sauce for an Italian twist on your focaccia experience.

In Sandwiches

• Caprese sandwich: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing sandwich option.
• Turkey club: Add sliced turkey, lettuce, and avocado for a hearty meal.

As a Side with Soups and Salads

• Tomato soup: Enjoy slices of focaccia dipped into warm tomato soup for a comforting combination.
• Mixed greens salad: Pair with a light salad topped with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

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How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Creating the perfect Sourdough Discard Focaccia is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your baking experience.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps in better mixing and fermentation.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest between folds develops flavor and texture.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different herbs, cheeses, or vegetables to customize your focaccia according to your taste.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the bread while baking. Every oven is different; adjust baking time as needed.
• Cool properly: Let the focaccia cool on a rack before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and prevents sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Sourdough Discard Focaccia pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, making it perfect for any meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing complements the bread’s texture beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients while enhancing the overall meal.
3. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta dishes featuring fresh vegetables marry well with focaccia’s flavors.
4. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, this classic starter enhances your Italian-inspired dinner.
5. Antipasto Platter: Combine cured meats, cheese, olives, and pickled vegetables for a delightful appetizer spread.
6. Chili: A warm bowl of chili provides comfort and pairs nicely with slices of focaccia for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking focaccia can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid when making your Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Using incorrect measurements can lead to a dense or overly sticky dough. Always use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Skipping the stretch and fold process – This step is essential for developing gluten. Neglecting it can result in a flat focaccia. Make sure to perform each set as instructed.
• Insufficient rising time – Rushing the fermentation process may yield a dough that doesn’t rise properly. Allow enough time for the dough to double in size until bubbly.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold water or sourdough discard can slow down yeast activity. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overcrowding toppings – While toppings add flavor, too many can weigh down the dough and prevent it from rising well. Use toppings sparingly for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm focaccia for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds; be cautious not to overdo it, as it may turn chewy.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered with a lid, for about 5 minutes to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sourdough discard?

Sourdough discard refers to the portion of sourdough starter that you remove before feeding it. It’s perfect for baking recipes like focaccia.

Can I make this Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and use plant-based oils instead of olive oil if desired.

How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?

The focaccia should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I use different flours in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other flours like spelt or rye, but keep in mind that this may affect the texture and flavor slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe is tender, spongy, and packed with flavor. It’s an easy option for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Feel free to customize your focaccia with different toppings like herbs, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your taste!