Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Tender, spongy, and full of flavor, this Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe is a delightful way to use leftover sourdough starter. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in, this focaccia stands out with its rich texture and customizable toppings. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned sourdough baker, you’ll appreciate how easily it comes together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novices can whip up this focaccia.
• Flavorful: The combination of sourdough discard and olive oil creates a unique taste that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your focaccia with any toppings you love—vegetables, nuts, or herbs work beautifully.
• Great for Sharing: Perfect for parties or as an appetizer, this focaccia is sure to impress your guests.
• Long-Lasting Freshness: While best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored for several days without losing quality.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe successfully, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheets (9 by 13 inches)
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Measuring scale

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space for dough to rise and expand during the fermentation process.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for mixing the dough thoroughly without scratching your bowls.
• Plastic wrap: Helps trap heat and moisture to encourage proper rising of the dough.

Ingredients

This recipe calls for a mix of basic pantry staples and fresh toppings to create a delicious focaccia.

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 the Toppings

• 56 grams olive oil
• 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

1. In a large bowl, combine the water, instant yeast, honey, and sourdough discard. Mix until there are no traces of discard.
2. Fold in the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Use your hands or a wooden spoon until all flour is hydrated.

Step 2: Knead in the Olive Oil

1. Gradually knead the olive oil into the dough until absorbed. The dough will become less greasy as it absorbs the oil.

Step 3: Rest the Dough

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

Step 4: Stretch and Fold

1. After resting, perform one set of stretch and folds:
2. Pick up one side of the dough with your fingertips.
3. Stretch it slightly without tearing and fold it over itself.
4. Rotate the bowl 90 degrees and repeat three more times.

Step 5: Second Rest Period

1. Cover again with plastic wrap; let rest in a warm spot for another 15 minutes.

Step 6: First Rise

1. Allow the dough to rise at room temperature until doubled in volume—about 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 7: Prep Baking Sheets

1. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. Coat each pan’s bottom with approximately 14 grams of olive oil.
3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 8: Second Rise

1. Divide the dough into two portions and transfer each portion onto prepared pans.
2. Cover with plastic wrap; let rest for another 15 minutes.

Step 9: Shape the Dough

1. After resting, stretch each portion out to reach the edges of their respective pans.
2. Cover again; let rise for another 20 minutes until bubbly.

Step 10: Assemble Toppings

1. Drizzle about 14 grams of olive oil over each portion; spread using your palm.
2. Use fingertips to dimple all over until completely flat.
3. Sprinkle sea salt on top; arrange desired toppings over each portion.

Step 11: Bake

1. Place baking sheets in preheated oven; bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 12: Cool Down

1. Transfer focaccias to a cooling rack; let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 13: Store Leftovers

1. For best taste, enjoy fresh on baking day but can store up to three days in an airtight container at room temperature. Refrigerate any leftover slices if topped.

Enjoy creating this delicious Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Sourdough Discard Focaccia is a versatile bread that can complement various meals or stand alone as a delightful snack. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious focaccia.

With Dips

• Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: A classic combination that enhances the flavor of the focaccia.
• Hummus: Creamy and rich, it pairs beautifully with the soft texture of the bread.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This refreshing yogurt-based dip adds a cool contrast to your focaccia.

As a Sandwich Base

• Turkey and Avocado: Use focaccia as a base for a hearty sandwich filled with turkey, ripe avocado, and fresh veggies.
• Caprese Style: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a simple yet flavorful option.

Accompanying Salads

• Greek Salad: The crispy texture of focaccia complements the freshness of cucumbers and tomatoes in this salad.
• Caesar Salad: Serve alongside Caesar salad for a crunchy addition to this classic dish.

With Cheese Boards

• Cheese Pairing: Enjoy slices of focaccia with assorted cheeses like brie, cheddar, or goat cheese for an elegant appetizer.

How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Creating the perfect Sourdough Discard Focaccia requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an exceptional result every time.

• Bold Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Using good olive oil enhances flavor significantly; don’t skimp on this ingredient.
• Bold Allow Enough Rise Time: Ensure you let your dough rise until it doubles in size for that light and airy texture.
• Bold Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as olives or herbs, but don’t overload them.
• Bold Preheat Your Oven Well: A properly preheated oven helps achieve that golden crust; ensure it’s at 425°F before baking.
• Bold Dimple Deeply in Dough: Make sure to create deep dimples in the dough before baking to hold in flavors from oils and toppings.
• Bold Cool Before Slicing: Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing to maintain its texture and prevent sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Sourdough Discard Focaccia pairs well with various side dishes that enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs provide a delightful contrast in flavors.
2. Soup of Your Choice: A warm bowl of soup, like tomato basil or minestrone, makes for a comforting meal alongside focaccia.
3. Grilled Chicken Salad: Light yet filling, this salad combines grilled chicken with crisp greens and vinaigrette.
4. Pasta Primavera: Fresh pasta mixed with vegetables offers a colorful plate that complements the bread’s texture.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Enjoy hearty stuffed peppers filled with grains and veggies as a satisfying side dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and feta works well with the soft bread’s texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Sourdough Discard Focaccia, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale for best results to ensure proper dough consistency.
• Skipping the resting period: Allowing the dough to rest helps develop flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step; let it rise fully for optimal results.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can lead to a tough focaccia. Mix until just combined and avoid excessive kneading.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings add flavor and beauty. Be creative! Don’t skip this step—experiment with herbs, vegetables, or nuts.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your oven is preheated properly before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the focaccia directly on the rack for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-30 seconds or until warm. This method may result in a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for about 2 minutes on each side until heated through and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe that might help you.

What is a Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe?

A Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe utilizes sourdough starter discard, creating a flavorful and tender bread that’s easy to make at home.

Can I add different toppings to my focaccia?

Absolutely! You can customize your focaccia with various toppings such as olives, herbs, tomatoes, or even seasonal vegetables for added flavor.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and appear bubbly on the surface, indicating it has risen sufficiently and is ready for baking.

What types of flour can I use?

In addition to bread flour and whole wheat flour, you can experiment with other flours like spelt or rye flour for unique flavors and textures in your focaccia.

Why is my focaccia dense?

If your focaccia turns out dense, it might be due to under-rising the dough or not incorporating enough air during mixing. Ensure proper rising times next time!

Final Thoughts

This Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe is not only simple but also versatile. Its tender texture makes it perfect as an appetizer or sandwich base. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or herbs, ensuring every bite is deliciously unique!