introduction
I still remember the first time I made sourdough pizza dough. The smell of warm bread filled my kitchen, and as I pulled the pizza from the oven, the golden crust was a sight to behold. Using sourdough discard felt special. It reminded me that cooking can reduce waste and create something delicious at the same time. This recipe for Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough is a simple way to use what you already have while making a dish the whole family loves. The result is a crust that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for holding all your favorite toppings. It’s not just pizza; it’s a way to celebrate the art of cooking.
why make this recipe
Making Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough is a fantastic way to utilize leftover sourdough starter that might otherwise go to waste. It’s a versatile base for any topping you love, allowing you to create homemade pizzas tailored to your taste. This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out. Plus, knowing you’re making something delicious from what you already have feels rewarding.
how to make Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup discard
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp salt
Directions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the water, sourdough discard, and olive oil. Slowly add in flour and salt, stirring until combined.
- Bulk Fermentation (Rise Time): Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough sit for about 4-6 hours at room temperature, allowing it to rise until doubled in size.
- Divide and Pre-Shape: Once risen, turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Divide it into two equal pieces and gently shape each into a ball. Let them rest for 30 minutes.
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.
- Shape & Bake: Roll out one dough ball into a pizza shape. Add your favorite toppings, then bake for about 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy.
how to serve Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough
Slice and serve your pizza hot from the oven. Pair it with a refreshing salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. This dough works well with any toppings your heart desires, from classic pepperoni to veggie overload.
how to store Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough
If you have leftover dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out and baking.
tips to make Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough
- Make sure your sourdough discard is bubbly and active for the best results.
- For extra flavor, let the dough rise in the fridge overnight before shaping it.
- Experiment with different flours, like whole wheat or bread flour, for varied texture and taste.
variation
You can easily turn this pizza dough into a flatbread by rolling it out thinner and cooking it for a shorter time. Try adding herbs or garlic to the dough for an additional flavor boost.
FAQs
- Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard? Yes, you can use an active sourdough starter, but reduce the water slightly since the starter already contains water.
- How can I make gluten-free pizza dough? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure to add a binding agent, like xanthan gum, for better texture.
- What toppings work best with this pizza dough? This dough is very versatile. Popular choices include tomato sauce and mozzarella, veggies, barbecue chicken, or even a white sauce with spinach and ricotta.