The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

This delightful Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread is a must-try for any bread lover! With its soft and fluffy texture, this recipe is not only simple but also perfect for various occasions—from everyday sandwiches to delicious toast. The best part? It’s dairy-free and refined sugar-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this forgiving recipe will soon become your go-to for homemade bread.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for home bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy this bread as a base for sandwiches, toast, or even as a side with soups and salads.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with whole wheat flour and no refined sugars, it’s a wholesome option for your meals.
• Quick Time Frame: The baking process takes just a few hours from start to finish, so you can enjoy fresh bread without waiting days.
• Sourdough Discard Utilization: This recipe helps reduce waste by using sourdough discard, making it eco-friendly and sustainable.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your baking adventure, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (optional)
• Dough hook (if using a stand mixer)
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×5-inch loaf pans
• Tea towel
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort during the kneading process, ensuring consistent dough texture.
• Dough hook: Helps efficiently knead the dough without tiring your hands.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

To make the Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 180g (¾ cup) warm water
• 7g (2 ¼ teaspoons) 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 teaspoons) 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 the warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly and activated.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the sourdough discard, flours, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough for approximately 15 minutes with a stand mixer using a dough hook or by hand. The dough should be soft and pliable.

Step 3: Perform the Windowpane Test

Perform the windowpane test by stretching a small section of dough until it’s thin enough to see light through without tearing. If it tears, continue kneading for up to 20 minutes. Let the dough rest for 2–3 minutes before retesting.

Step 4: 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) for about 40 minutes to 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Punch Down and Shape

Once risen, punch down the dough. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and divide it into two equal portions.

Option 1:

Flatten each portion into a rectangle, fold down the top third, then fold in the sides. Roll into a log and pinch seams.

Option 2:

Roll each portion into a rectangle that matches your loaf pan’s length. Roll tightly and pinch seams.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place shaped loaves seam-side down into two greased 9×5-inch loaf pans. Let them rise for another 30 minutes to an hour or until they rise above the pan’s edge.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Cool

Remove loaves from pans and cool on a wire rack. For softer crusts, brush tops with olive oil while still warm.

How to Serve The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

This soft and fluffy sourdough discard sandwich bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re preparing a hearty meal or a light snack, there are plenty of delicious serving options to consider.

Classic Sandwiches

• Turkey and Avocado: Layer slices of turkey with creamy avocado for a satisfying lunch.
• BLT: Combine crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes for a classic favorite.
• Grilled Cheese: Melt your favorite cheese between two slices for a comforting treat.

Toast Variations

• Avocado Toast: Mash ripe avocado on toasted bread and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• Peanut Butter Banana: Spread peanut butter and top with banana slices for a quick breakfast.
• Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Butter the toast and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a sweet snack.

Dipping Options

• Hummus: Serve slices alongside hummus for a healthy appetizer.
• Soup Pairing: Enjoy this bread with your favorite soup for a warming meal.

How to Perfect The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Making the perfect sourdough discard sandwich bread is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your baking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your yeast and flour to ensure optimal rise and flavor.
• Knead Thoroughly: Ensure you knead the dough well until it passes the windowpane test, which indicates gluten development.
• Monitor Temperature: Keep dough in a warm spot while rising; this helps activate yeast more effectively.
• Experiment with Flours: Feel free to mix different flours for unique flavors—try adding rye or spelt flour!
• Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow ample time for the dough to rise; this enhances texture and taste.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover bread in an airtight container to maintain freshness longer.

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Best Side Dishes for The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Pairing side dishes with your sourdough discard sandwich bread can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavor perfectly.

1. Garden Salad: A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Season assorted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots, then roast until tender.
3. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips add texture; try homemade ones baked in olive oil for healthiness.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots provides a nice crunch alongside sandwiches.
5. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings sweetness that balances savory dishes well.
6. Pickles: Tangy pickles offer a great contrast in flavors—perfect as a crunchy side!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking bread can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind while making The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread.

• Skipping the yeast activation: Always allow the yeast to sit with warm water and honey for 5 minutes. This ensures it’s active before mixing it into the dough.
• Not kneading enough: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the bread structure. Aim for at least 15 minutes of kneading.
• Ignoring dough temperature: Make sure your dough rises in a warm place (above 80°F). Cold environments will slow down fermentation.
• Rushing the second rise: Allow the shaped loaves to rise until they have doubled in size for best texture. Patience here pays off!
• Not checking for doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 190°F. This prevents undercooking or overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or a plastic bag.
• The bread will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the bread for about 10–15 minutes. This keeps it crusty.
• Microwave: Wrap slices in a damp paper towel and heat for 15–20 seconds. This method makes it soft but can make it chewy if overdone.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a pan over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side. This creates a nice toasted texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread special?

This bread is unique because it utilizes sourdough discard, reducing waste while creating a delicious loaf that is soft and fluffy.

Can I use different flours?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour or even gluten-free flour blends, but this may alter the texture slightly.

How do I know when my bread is done baking?

Check with a thermometer; it should read at least 190°F in the center of the loaf. A golden-brown crust is also a good indicator.

Is The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread healthy?

This recipe is dairy-free and refined sugar-free, making it a healthier option compared to many store-bought breads.

Can I add ingredients like herbs or cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your sandwich bread by adding herbs, spices, or cheese during the mixing stage.

Final Thoughts

The Easiest Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread offers an accessible way to enjoy homemade bread with minimal fuss. Its soft texture makes it perfect for sandwiches or toast, and you can easily customize it with various add-ins. Give this recipe a try and enjoy delicious, fresh bread right from your kitchen!

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