Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Tender, spongy, and full of flavor, this Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe is a delightful way to utilize sourdough discard. Ideal for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this focaccia is perfect for any occasion—be it a casual lunch, a dinner party, or as a side with your favorite soup. With its airy texture and versatile toppings, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy this delicious bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This focaccia comes together quickly and doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
• Flavorful Base: The sourdough discard adds unique depth and complexity to the flavor.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your focaccia with various toppings like tomatoes, olives, or fresh herbs.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, it’s great for gatherings or family meals.
• Stays Fresh: Enjoy it on the day it’s baked or store leftovers easily.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or dough scraper
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheets (9 by 13 inches)
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows enough space for mixing the ingredients without mess.
• Dough scraper: Helpful for kneading and folding the dough efficiently.
• Plastic wrap: Keeps the dough covered during rises to prevent drying out.

Ingredients

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 Topping

• 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

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

Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Fold in the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Mix until all of the flour is hydrated.

Step 3: Knead with Olive Oil

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

Step 4: First Rest

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let the dough rest in a warm place for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Stretch and Fold Technique

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

Step 6: Second Rest

Cover again with plastic wrap. Set in a warm spot for another 15 minutes.

Step 7: Second Round of Stretching

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

Step 8: First Rise

Let the dough rise at room temperature until it doubles in volume, around 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 9: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Coat each pan’s bottom with about one tablespoon of olive oil. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).

Step 10: Second Rise

Divide the dough into two portions. Transfer each portion onto prepared pans. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for an additional 15 minutes.

Step 11: Final Stretch

After resting, stretch each portion out to cover the edges of its pan. Cover again and let rise for another 20 minutes until bubbly.

Step 12: Assemble Toppings

Working with one portion at a time:
1. Pour about one tablespoon of olive oil over the dough.
2. Spread using your palm.
3. Dimple all over using fingertips.

Sprinkle sea salt and arrange toppings as desired before repeating with remaining dough.

Step 13: Bake

Transfer baking sheets to your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 14: Cool Down

Once baked, transfer focaccias to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool for at least ten minutes before slicing—longer if using for sandwiches.

Step 15: Storage Tips

This focaccia tastes best fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate any leftovers if you used toppings.

With these steps completed, your Sourdough Discard Focaccia will be ready to delight friends and family! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Sourdough Discard Focaccia is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous delicious ways. Whether as a side dish, appetizer, or even a sandwich base, this focaccia enhances any meal.

As a Sandwich Base

• Use it for paninis: Layer your favorite meats and cheeses between two slices of focaccia and grill for a warm, melty treat.
• Create classic sandwiches: Fill with fresh veggies, spreads, or deli meats for a satisfying lunch.

With Dips and Spreads

• Pair with olive oil: Drizzle high-quality olive oil mixed with balsamic vinegar for a simple yet flavorful dip.
• Serve alongside hummus: The spongy texture of focaccia is perfect for scooping up creamy hummus.

As an Appetizer

• Cut into small squares: Serve warm focaccia pieces with cheese platters or charcuterie boards.
• Top with bruschetta: Add diced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on top for an Italian twist.

For Breakfast

• Make breakfast sandwiches: Add eggs and avocado between slices for a hearty start to your day.
• Toast with butter: Spread a little butter and enjoy it warm with coffee.

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How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Sourdough Discard Focaccia, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your baking experience and ensure delicious outcomes.

• Use room temperature water: This helps activate the yeast effectively, leading to better dough rise.
• Don’t skip the stretch and fold: This technique develops gluten structure, making your focaccia airy and chewy.
• Let it rise longer: If your kitchen is cool, allow additional time for the dough to double in size; patience pays off!
• Experiment with toppings: Fresh herbs, cheeses, or seasonal vegetables can enhance flavor profiles; get creative!
• Preheat your oven: Ensuring your oven is hot before baking will help create that golden crust we all love.
• Cool before slicing: Allowing the bread to cool properly ensures cleaner cuts and better texture retention.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

Sourdough Discard Focaccia pairs beautifully with many side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil bring out their natural sweetness and pair well with focaccia.
3. Italian Wedding Soup: A hearty soup filled with meatballs and greens makes for a comforting meal alongside focaccia.
4. Antipasto Platter: Combine cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables for an impressive spread.
5. Caesar Salad: Crispy romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing pairs perfectly with the soft texture of focaccia.
6. Garlic Butter Shrimp: Juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter provide a luxurious complement to the bread’s softness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Sourdough Discard Focaccia, a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the yeast activation: Always ensure your instant yeast is fresh. If it’s old, it won’t rise properly. Activate it by mixing with water and honey before adding to the dough.
• Not letting the dough rise enough: Allowing the dough to double in size is crucial for the focaccia’s texture. Be patient, as this may take 30 to 45 minutes.
• Over or under-flouring: Using too much or too little flour can affect the dough’s consistency. Measure accurately for best results.
• Neglecting proper oiling of pans: Insufficient oil can cause sticking and uneven baking. Coat your baking sheets generously with olive oil before adding the dough.
• Forgetting about toppings: Toppings add flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step! Experiment with different herbs and vegetables for variety.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store focaccia in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place a paper towel inside to absorb moisture and keep it fresh.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

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

Reheating Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 15-20 seconds per slice; cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe that might help you:

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water first.

How do I customize my Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe?

You can add various toppings such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cheese based on your preferences.

What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?

Ensure your environment is warm enough. Yeast needs warmth to activate; try placing it near a heater or in an oven with just the light on.

How long will Sourdough Discard Focaccia keep?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature but can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Sourdough Discard Focaccia Recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. Its tender texture and rich flavor make it a delightful addition to any meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or herbs, making each batch unique!