What is sourdough discard?

Sourdough discard is excess starter that is removed during regular feedings. Instead of wasting it, use it in recipes like focaccia for added flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the focaccia?

Yes! Once cooled, wrap the focaccia in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and reheated when needed.

How long does it take to rise?

Typically, the dough needs about 4-6 hours to rise at room temperature. Factors like temperature can influence this process, so keep an eye on it!

What can I add to the focaccia for flavor?

You can enhance your focaccia by adding toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs before baking. These add vibrant flavors that complement the bread beautifully.

Is focaccia difficult to make?

Not at all! With a few simple steps and some patience, anyone can make focaccia. It’s forgiving and great for beginners.

Sourdough Discard Focaccia

Description

Unlock the secret to heavenly homemade bread with our Sourdough Discard Focaccia recipe. Perfectly golden and irresistibly fluffy, this delicious focaccia is an ideal way to make the most of your sourdough discard. Simple ingredients and easy steps make this recipe great, even for beginners. Elevate your family meals or impress guests with this delightful treat. Curious to try it at home? Click through to get the full recipe and start baking a warm focaccia masterpiece today!

Ingredients

Scale

6 ounces (170 grams) sourdough starter discard, active or inactive
1 teaspoon instant yeast (can omit this if you are using an active starter discard)
1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour (can use white whole wheat; note: you may need up to an additional 1 cup of flour if your dough is too wet)
1 and ¾ cups (225 grams) bread flour (can use all-purpose)
1 and ¼ cups (285 milliliters) lukewarm water
2 teaspoons salt
¼ cup (55 milliliters) extra virgin olive oil (I did not use as much – I used closer to 4 Tablespoons)
¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing together your sourdough discard, warm water, flour, and salt until a shaggy dough forms. This is the foundation of your focaccia, so make sure all ingredients are well combined, giving you a satisfying blend.

Step 2: Initial Rise

Let the dough sit cover for about 30 minutes. This brief period allows the gluten to relax and makes your focaccia easier to handle later on.

Step 3: Stretch and Fold

Perform several stretches and folds every 30 minutes for a few hours. This technique develops strength in the dough and enhances its airy texture. Enjoy feeling the dough transform under your hands as it rises.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Generously oil a baking dish to ensure your focaccia doesn’t stick. The oil not only helps with preventing sticking but also contributes to a beautifully crispy crust.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough to the prepared baking dish and use your fingers to spread it out gently, ensuring it fills the corners. This shaping promotes an even thickness throughout the focaccia.

Step 6: Final Rise

Allow your shaped dough to rise again for about an hour until it has puffed up noticeably. This final rise is crucial for achieving that light and airy texture that focaccia is known for.

Step 7: Create Dents

Once risen, use your fingers to gently create dimples all over the surface of the dough. This not only lends that signature focaccia look but also holds the toppings and oils in beautifully.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Drizzle olive oil over the dough and sprinkle with salt, herbs, or your choice of toppings. This step allows you to get creative and customize the flavor to your liking.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the focaccia in a preheated oven until golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is nothing short of delightful, signaling that deliciousness is on the way!

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for—gather friends and family to enjoy your fresh-baked focaccia together!

Notes

Tip 1: Use Cold Discard

A chilled sourdough discard can be used in this recipe, making it a great way to utilize what you have on hand.

Tip 2: Experiment with Toppings

Feel free to experiment with various toppings like olives, cherry tomatoes, or different herbs to create your unique flavor profile.

Tip 3: Store for Freshness

To keep leftover focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days or freeze for longer storage.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 1500kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 7784mg
Fat: 59g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Fiber: 14g
Protein: 63g

Keywords: Sourdough Discard Focaccia Bread, Simple Sourdough Focaccia