These savory sourdough cheese waffles are a game changer! Made with leftover sourdough starter, they’re crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. Plus, cheese makes everything better!
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a fun snack. I love to pair them with some yummy toppings like avocado or a dollop of sour cream. Who knew using leftovers could taste so good? 🧀✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: This is the star of the show! It gives the waffles a unique tangy flavor. If you don’t have discard, you can use plain yogurt or even buttermilk as a substitute.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for this recipe. It melts beautifully, but feel free to swap it out with mozzarella, gouda, or even feta to change the flavor profile.
Milk: Whole milk provides richness, but you can use any milk you have on hand, including almond or oat milk, for a dairy-free version.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a nice pop of flavor. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs will work too—just use about a teaspoon.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Waffles?
To achieve perfectly crispy waffles, it’s essential to preheat your waffle iron thoroughly before adding the batter. Here are some tips:
- Grease the waffle iron just before pouring in the batter to help prevent sticking.
- Don’t over-mix the batter; combining until just mixed is key. This keeps the waffles light and fluffy.
- Cook the waffles until they are golden and crisp, which generally takes 3-5 minutes. Timing can vary by appliance, so keep an eye on them!
With these tips, you’ll be sure to enjoy deliciously crispy sourdough cheese waffles every time!
Savory Sourdough Cheese Waffles Discard
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil (plus extra for waffle iron)
- Fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
- Flavored butter (e.g., herb butter) for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 5 minutes of cooking time per batch, depending on your waffle iron. Overall, you can have delicious savory waffles ready in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Waffle Iron:
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. While it heats up, you can prepare the batter. Grease the iron with a little butter or oil to prevent sticking once the batter is added.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter discard, egg, milk, and melted butter until everything is well mixed and smooth. This is where the delicious tangy flavor comes from!
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). This will ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and make your waffles fluffier.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined; don’t overmix! Your batter should be thick yet pourable. This will help keep the waffles fluffy.
5. Add Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. The cheese will melt beautifully as the waffles cook!
6. Cook the Waffles:
Spoon the batter into the preheated waffle iron, spreading it evenly. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
7. Serve Warm:
Carefully remove the waffles from the waffle iron and serve them hot. Top with a pat of herb butter and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for added flavor.
8. Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy your savory, cheesy sourdough waffles warm! They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a tasty snack at any time!
This recipe is a fantastic way to minimize waste by using sourdough discard while also treating yourself to something deliciously different. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can use mozzarella, gouda, feta, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well!
How Do I Store Leftover Waffles?
Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or an oven until heated through for a delicious crispy texture again!
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the batter ahead and store it in the fridge for a few hours, but for the best results, it’s best to cook the waffles fresh. The sourdough discard may continue to ferment, which could affect the batter’s texture.
What Should I Serve with These Waffles?
These savory waffles pair wonderfully with toppings like avocado slices, a poached egg, or even a dollop of sour cream. They also make a great side to a salad for a light meal!