Tired of letting your sourdough starter go to waste? Transform that discarded portion into something truly delicious with this recipe for incredibly soft and flavorful sourdough discard dinner rolls! These rolls are perfect for accompanying any meal, from hearty soups to comforting stews. They're surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers, and offer a delightful tangy flavor that elevates your dinner game. This recipe provides a quick and satisfying dinner solution, perfect for those busy weeknights. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with these amazing rolls!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (fed and active)
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add the sourdough starter and olive oil; mix well. This activates the yeast in your starter and creates a flavorful base for your rolls.
Combine Dry & Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Don't overmix at this stage.
Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. This kneading process develops the gluten, resulting in softer rolls.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This rise allows the yeast to ferment and create a lighter texture.
Shape and Rise Again:
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. A lovely golden-brown crust signifies perfectly baked rolls.
Cool and Enjoy:
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy these warm, fluffy rolls with your favorite meal! They are best served fresh.
Tips for Success:
- Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using it. A healthy starter is crucial for successful leavening.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough rolls. Mix until just combined.
- Proper Rising: Allow ample time for the dough to rise. A warm environment will speed up the process.
Variations:
- Herbs & Spices: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spices like garlic powder or onion powder to the dough for extra flavor.
- Cheese: Incorporate shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese into the dough for cheesy rolls.
- Sweet Rolls: Add a touch of cinnamon and sugar for sweet dinner rolls.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This simple recipe makes a delicious and easy meal, utilizing what would otherwise be discarded. The result is incredibly satisfying homemade dinner rolls, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious outcome of your baking efforts!