Sourdough Discard Pancakes

Name: Sourdough Discard Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup sourdough discard; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Optional: vanilla extract (cinnamon)

Sourdough discard pancakes are a scrumptious way to transform leftover starter into a fluffy, flavorful breakfast. Not only do they reduce waste, but they also impart a unique tanginess that elevates the traditional pancake. Whether served with fresh berries, syrup, or a dollop of yogurt, these pancakes are sure to delight your taste buds. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, they bring a delightful twist to your morning routine.

Ingredients

– 1 cup sourdough discard
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
– 2 tablespoons melted butter (or oil)
– Optional: vanilla extract, cinnamon

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 pancake) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 22g
– Fat: 5g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on a serving size of one pancake.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and then add the milk and melted butter, mixing well.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; small lumps are okay.
4. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
6. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
8. Repeat until all batter is used, adjusting heat as necessary.
9. Serve warm with toppings of your choice.
10. Enjoy your delicious sourdough discard pancakes!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour for a healthier or gluten-free option. Dairy milk can also be replaced with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Additionally, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.

Serving and Pairings

These pancakes pair wonderfully with maple syrup, fresh fruit like berries or bananas, and a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch. You can also serve them with yogurt or whipped cream for a decadent treat.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or microwave until warm. Pancakes can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just separate layers with parchment paper and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t overmix the batter; it can make the pancakes tough.
Ensure your skillet is at the right temperature to avoid burning.
Use a measuring cup for consistent pancake sizes.
Let the batter rest for a few minutes for fluffier pancakes.
Avoid cooking on high heat, which can cook the outside too fast.

Helpful Tips

Experiment with different add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
For extra tang, add a spoonful of yogurt to the batter.
Keep pancakes warm in a low oven while cooking the rest.
For thicker pancakes, reduce the milk slightly.

FAQs

Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes, you can use active sourdough starter, but you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients to maintain the right batter consistency.

How do I make these pancakes vegan?

To make them vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and oil.

Can I add fruit to the batter?

Absolutely! Blueberries, bananas, or diced apples can be added directly to the batter for extra flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with sourdough discard pancakes?

These pancakes are delicious with maple syrup, fresh fruits, yogurt, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a special touch.

Why are my pancakes not fluffy?

If your pancakes are dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using old leavening agents. Make sure to mix just until combined and check the freshness of your baking powder and soda.

Conclusion

Sourdough discard pancakes are not only a delightful breakfast option but also a fantastic way to reduce food waste. With their unique flavor and fluffy texture, they make for a satisfying meal any time of day. So next time you have some sourdough discard, whip up a batch of these pancakes and enjoy a tasty treat that’s both sustainable and delicious.