The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

This Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread is a delightful way to utilize your sourdough discard while creating soft, fluffy bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter. Its quick preparation time and forgiving nature make it an ideal choice for any occasion—from busy weekday lunches to weekend brunches. Plus, it’s free from dairy and refined sugar, catering to various dietary needs.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Bread
• For Garnish
• How to Make The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Step 1: Activate the Yeast
• Step 2: Prepare the Dough
• Step 3: First Rise
• Step 4: Shape the Loaves
• Step 5: Second Rise
• Step 6: Bake
• Step 7: Cool
• How to Serve The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Classic Sandwiches
• Toasted Options
• Breakfast Ideas
• How to Perfect The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Best Side Dishes for The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Reheating The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread unique?
• Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
• How do I know if my sourdough discard is still good?
• How long does The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread last?
• Can I customize this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe allows you to whip up fresh bread in just a few hours without the long fermentation times typical of traditional sourdough.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy this sandwich bread in countless ways—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or even as a side with soups and salads.
• Healthier Ingredients: Made without dairy and refined sugar, this bread is a healthier alternative that’s still full of flavor.
• Easy to Make: Even novice bakers will find this recipe straightforward, ensuring great results every time.
• Sourdough Benefits: Utilizing sourdough discard not only reduces waste but also adds unique flavor and texture to the bread.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easy and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create your sourdough discard sandwich bread.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (optional)
• Mixing bowl
• Dough scraper
• Kitchen scale (highly recommended)
• Loaf pans (9×5 inches)
• Tea towel
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer: This tool saves time and effort when kneading dough, making the process smoother.
• Kitchen Scale: Using weight measurements ensures accuracy in your ingredients for the best results.
• Loaf Pans: The right size of pans helps achieve the perfect shape and crust on your loaves.

Ingredients

For this delicious Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread, gather the following ingredients:

For the Bread

• 180g (¾ cup) warm water
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 60g (¼ cup) honey
• 120g (1 cup) whole wheat flour
• 343g (2 ½ cups) bread flour
• 180g (¾ cup) sourdough discard
• 10g (1 ½ tsp) salt
• 60g (¼ cup) olive oil

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until bubbly to activate the yeast.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Add the remaining ingredients into the bowl. Knead for about 15 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook or by hand. The dough should be soft and pliable enough to pass the windowpane test:
1. Stretch a small section of dough until thin enough to see light through.
2. If it tears easily, continue kneading for up to 20 minutes. Allow it to rest for 2-3 minutes before testing again.

Step 3: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a large bowl. Cover with a tea towel and let it rise in a warm place (above 80°F) until doubled in size; this should take about 40 minutes to an hour.

Step 4: Shape the Loaves

Once risen, punch down the dough gently. Place it on a lightly floured surface and divide it into two equal sections.
1. Flatten each section into a rectangle.
2. Fold the top third down then fold both sides toward the center.
3. Roll it tightly into a log and pinch seams closed.

Alternatively:
1. Roll each section into a rectangle matching the length of your loaf pan.
2. Tightly roll it up from one end to form a log, pinching seams as you go.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place each shaped loaf into greased 9×5-inch loaf pans, seam side down. Cover again with a tea towel and let rise for another 30 minutes to an hour until they have doubled in size and risen above the pan’s edge.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake loaves for about 35-40 minutes or until their internal temperature reaches 190°F.

Step 7: Cool

Remove from pans and cool on wire racks. For softer crusts, brush tops with olive oil immediately after baking. Enjoy your freshly made sourdough discard sandwich bread!

How to Serve The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

This soft and fluffy sourdough discard sandwich bread is perfect for a variety of delicious meals. Whether you’re preparing lunch or dinner, there are many ways to enjoy this versatile bread.

Classic Sandwiches

• Turkey and Avocado: Layer sliced turkey, ripe avocado, and fresh spinach for a healthy option.
• Grilled Cheese: Melt your favorite cheese between two slices and grill until golden brown for a comfort food classic.
• PB&J: Spread peanut butter and jam for an easy and satisfying snack.

Toasted Options

• Avocado Toast: Mash avocado on toasted bread, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chili flakes for a trendy breakfast.
• Garlic Bread: Spread garlic butter on sliced bread, toast in the oven until crispy for a great appetizer.

Breakfast Ideas

• French Toast: Dip slices in a mixture of eggs and milk, then cook on a skillet for a sweet breakfast treat.
• Egg Sandwich: Fill with scrambled eggs and your choice of veggies for a hearty morning meal.

How to Perfect The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

To achieve the best results with your sourdough discard sandwich bread, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly Measure Ingredients: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results. Use grams when possible.
• Boldly Knead the Dough: Proper kneading develops gluten. Aim for at least 15 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic.
• Boldly Monitor Rising Time: Keep an eye on the dough as it rises. Warmer environments speed up fermentation; adjust rising times accordingly.
• Boldly Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven reaches 350°F before baking to get that perfect rise and crust.
• Boldly Cool Before Slicing: Let the baked loaves cool completely before slicing to maintain their softness.

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Best Side Dishes for The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

The right side dishes can elevate your meal featuring sourdough discard sandwich bread. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad complements sandwiches well; toss greens with vinaigrette for a light side.
2. Vegetable Soup: Pairing warm soup with bread makes for a comforting meal; choose your favorite vegetable blend.
3. Chips or Fries: A crunchy side adds texture; serve with homemade potato chips or sweet potato fries.
4. Pickles: Tangy pickles contrast beautifully with rich sandwiches; they add brightness to every bite.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances savory flavors nicely; mix seasonal fruits for variety.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies make a nutritious side dish; season them simply with olive oil and herbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overproofing the Dough: Letting the dough rise for too long can cause it to collapse. Keep an eye on it and shape when it has doubled in size.
• Incorrect Measurements: Not weighing ingredients can lead to inconsistent results. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and water.
• Skipping the Windowpane Test: Failing to check if the dough is well-kneaded can result in dense bread. Always perform this test before letting it rise.
• Not Using Warm Water: Cold water can slow down yeast activation. Ensure your water is warm (not hot) to encourage proper fermentation.
• Ignoring Rising Times: Every kitchen is different; rising times may vary. Look for visual cues rather than just timing to know when your dough is ready.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled bread in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped loaves in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap the bread in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 10-15 seconds at a time until warm, but avoid overheating as it may become rubbery.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Toast slices for a few minutes on each side until golden brown.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread unique?

This recipe uses sourdough discard, making it a great way to reduce waste while enjoying delicious homemade bread.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may differ slightly from using bread flour.

How do I know if my sourdough discard is still good?

If your sourdough discard has a pleasant, tangy smell and shows bubbles, it’s still good to use.

How long does The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread last?

When stored properly, this bread lasts up to 5 days at room temperature or longer if frozen.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add herbs, seeds, or even cheese for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread offers a quick and easy method for baking soft and fluffy bread at home. Its forgiving nature makes it perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!