These Sourdough Discard Dumplings are a tasty way to use up leftover sourdough starter. They are fluffy, easy to make, and full of flavor!
Honestly, who would have thought leftovers could taste this good? I love throwing these dumplings into soups or just enjoying them on their own with a bit of butter. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: This is the star of the show! Use unfed sourdough discard, as it adds flavor and helps the dumplings rise. If you don’t have any, plain yogurt or buttermilk could work as a substitute, but the flavor will change slightly.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect here, but you can try using whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste or gluten-free flour blend if needed. Just note that the texture may vary a bit.
Fresh Parsley: This herb brightens up the dumplings. If you don’t have parsley, feel free to use dried herbs like thyme or dill. Fresh basil or chives also add a nice twist!
Butter: While optional, adding melted butter makes the dumplings richer. If you want a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead.
Broth: I love using homemade or store-bought broth for depth of flavor. If you prefer, you can use water or chicken stock, but the dumplings taste amazing in a flavorful broth.
How Do I Make Fluffy Dumplings That Don’t Fall Apart?
To achieve fluffy dumplings, the mixing technique is crucial. Make sure not to over-mix the dough; just mix until it’s combined. Here’s a couple of tips:
- After combining the dry and wet ingredients, stop mixing as soon as you have no dry flour. Overworking it can lead to dense dumplings.
- When shaping the dumplings, keep your hands lightly floured to prevent sticking. Don’t squish them too much; a gentle touch is key.
- Be careful while dropping them into the simmering broth. If the broth is boiling too hard, it may break the dumplings apart. Simmer is the way to go!
With these tips, your dumplings should turn out light and fluffy every time. Enjoy making this delicious dish!
How to Make Sourdough Discard Dumplings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup milk (or as needed)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional)
For the Broth/Base (optional):
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. Perfect for a quick meal or as an addition to your favorite soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dumpling Dough:
In a large bowl, mix together the sourdough discard, flour, baking powder, salt, and chopped parsley. Stir until everything is combined.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Gradually pour in the milk while mixing, just until the dough comes together and feels soft but not sticky. If it’s too dry, you can add a little more milk.
3. Optional Butter for Richness:
If you like, mix in the melted butter for extra flavor and richness. It’s totally optional but delicious!
4. Shape the Dumplings:
With floured hands, grab a small amount of dough and roll it into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Remember, a gentle hand makes fluffy dumplings!
5. Prepare the Broth:
In a large pot, bring the broth (or water if you choose) to a gentle simmer along with the diced vegetables. This adds a lovely flavor to your dumplings!
6. Cook the Dumplings:
Carefully drop the dumplings into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let them cook for about 15 minutes, or until they’re fluffy and cooked through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the dumplings are cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the broth. Serve them hot in the broth or with a little butter on the side.
8. Dig In!
Enjoy your delicious, fluffy sourdough discard dumplings! They’re perfect in soups, stews, or simply on their own.
Happy cooking, and enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Active Sourdough Starter Instead of Discard?
Absolutely! If you have active sourdough starter, you can use it in place of discard. Just keep in mind that your dumplings will rise a bit more. You may want to reduce the baking powder slightly (to about 1/2 teaspoon) as a result.
Can I Make the Dumplings Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace the regular flour. Be sure to check the blend for a binding agent like xanthan gum to ensure the dumplings hold together.
What Can I Do If the Dough is Too Sticky?
If your dough seems too sticky, you can sprinkle in a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Just be cautious not to overdo it, as adding too much flour can make the dumplings dense.
How Should I Store Leftover Dumplings?
Store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated gently on the stove with a splash of broth or in the microwave. Keep in mind they may lose some fluffiness upon reheating!