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Sourdough Discard Focaccia

Sourdough Discard Focaccia: A Chewy and Flavorful Bread

Thomas J. Moss
"TransformYour Sourdough Discard into Flavorful, Chewy Focaccia: A Baker’s Delight"
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • - Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or dough hook
  • - Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet or focaccia pan
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup 240g sourdough discard (unfed)
  • 1 1/4 cups 300ml warm water
  • 3 1/2 cups 420g all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup 60ml olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast optional for quicker rise
  • Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
  • Fresh rosemary or other herbs for topping optional

Instructions
 

  • Activate Yeast (Optional): Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. This step is optional but speeds up the process.
  • Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sourdough discard with the yeast mixture (or just water if not using yeast) and olive oil. Stir until well mixed.
  • Combine Dry Ingredients: Add flour and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until a shaggy, slightly sticky dough forms.
  • Knead the Dough: Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use the stretch-and-fold method in the bowl.
  • First Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise at room temperature for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge for stronger flavor.
  • Shape the Dough: Transfer dough to an oiled pan. Gently stretch and press it to fit, creating deep dimples on the surface.
  • Second Rise: Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours until puffy. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Prepare for Baking: Drizzle olive oil over the dough, filling the dimples. Sprinkle with sea salt and preferred toppings.
  • Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy. The bread should sound hollow when tapped.
  • Cool and Serve: Cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, enjoying the chewy texture and rich flavor.

Notes

Notes:
  • The yeast is optional but can help speed up the rising process.
  • For a stronger sourdough flavor, allow the dough to rise in the fridge overnight.
  • Adjust the amount of flour based on the hydration level of your discard.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 210 | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4.5g | Sodium: 300mg | Potassium: 70mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 0mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 2mg