why make this recipe

Making a sourdough discard sandwich loaf is a wonderful way to reduce waste in your kitchen. Sourdough discard, the leftover starter that would usually be tossed away, can add great flavor and texture to your bread. Not only is this loaf soft and delicious, but it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy homemade sandwiches or toast. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, even for beginners!

how to make Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf

Ingredients :

100 g Sourdough Discard (unfed sourdough starter)
250 g Water
500 g Bread Flour (or All Purpose Flour)
10 g Salt
20 g Sugar
60 g Butter (salted, room temperature)
7 g Instant Yeast

Directions :

Combine the sourdough discard, water, and flour in the bowl of your stand mixer or Thermomix. Mix until it forms a shaggy dough (around 30 seconds will do it). Leave the dough to rest for 30 minutes.
Now add the salt, sugar, butter, and yeast to the bowl. Knead the dough for around 3 to 6 minutes. You want the dough to be elastic and silky, slapping the sides of the bowl. Keep the mixer going until you achieve this. If you are using a stand mixer, use your dough hook attachment for this step.

Let the dough rise. Since you are using instant yeast, it will rise quickly, especially in a warm home. Leave it for around an hour, or until it doubles in size (longer if your home is cooler).
While the dough is rising, lightly butter a sandwich loaf or pullman pan to prepare for when the dough is shaped.

Once the dough has doubled, tip it onto the countertop with the smooth side underneath and the sticky side on top. Gently ease the dough into a rectangle.
To shape your dough into a sandwich loaf, fold each side of the rectangle into the middle. Then roll the dough into a tight log with the seam underneath. Tighten the top by pulling the dough towards you from the base without lifting it off the countertop.

Place the shaped dough into the buttered loaf tin. Let it rise until it’s just above the rim of the tin. This will take about an hour, depending on your home’s temperature.
Preheat your oven to around 180C/350F for about 10 minutes. Spray the top of your dough with water mist and place it into the oven, ensuring there’s enough space for it to grow.
Bake your bread at 180C/350F for about 40 to 45 minutes or until the loaf is golden brown.

Remove from the loaf tin and let it cool on a wire rack.

how to serve Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf

This sourdough discard sandwich loaf is perfect for making sandwiches, toasting with butter, or enjoying with your favorite spreads. You can slice it thin or thick, depending on your preference. It also pairs well with soups and salads for a delightful meal.

how to store Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf

To keep your sourdough loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, slice the loaf and freeze it. When you’re ready to eat, simply toast or let it thaw at room temperature.

tips to make Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
If your dough feels too sticky, you can add a little extra flour but be careful not to add too much.
Always check the dough’s elasticity before shaping – it should stretch without breaking.

variation

You can customize this recipe by adding herbs, cheese, or seeds to the dough before shaping. This adds flavor and makes your sandwich loaf even more delicious.

FAQs

1. Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, you can use active sourdough starter. Just reduce the amount of water slightly, as active starter contains more moisture.

2. How can I know if my loaf is baked properly?
Your loaf is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom.

3. Can I make this loaf without a stand mixer?
Yes! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. Just ensure to knead well until it becomes elastic.