Easy Sourdough Flatbread Recipe with Discard or Active Starter (2024)

This easy sourdough flatbread recipe is perfect for a sourdough beginner. This quick easy flatbread can be used to pair with all kinds of soups, to make pizzas, or to smother in hummus.

In the realm of homesteading and homemaking, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as whipping up a batch of homemade sourdough flatbread. Not only is it a fantastic way to utilize sourdough discard, but it also provides tons of incredible flavor, all while reducing food waste. We’ll guide you through the steps to create your own sourdough flatbreads using simple ingredients and techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned sourdough enthusiast or a newbie to the world of wild yeast, this easy recipe will have you enjoying fluffy, golden brown flatbreads in no time.

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The Magic of Sourdough: Why Sourdough?

Sourdough bread, renowned for its unique taste and health benefits, is made with a mixture of wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria. These microorganisms not only impart that distinctive tangy flavor but also help break down phytic acid, making the bread more digestible and nutrient-rich. Plus, sourdough bread is a great way to enjoy bread if you’re sensitive to gluten since the long fermentation process breaks down gluten proteins. To learn the ins and outs of sourdough bread making, check out our post on the art of sourdough bread making.

Sourdough bread, beyond its delicious taste and unique tangy flavor, offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice among bread enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals. Here are some of the key advantages of sourdough bread:

1. Improved Digestibility:

Firstly, Sourdough fermentation breaks down phytic acid, an antinutrient found in grains. This process makes the minerals in the bread, such as iron, zinc, and calcium, more bioavailable, enhancing their absorption by the body. As a result, sourdough bread is easier on the digestive system and may be better tolerated by those with sensitivity to gluten.

2. Lower Glycemic Index:

Also, Sourdough bread typically has a lower glycemic index (GI) compared to bread made with commercial yeast. This means it has a slower and more gradual impact on blood sugar levels, which can help in managing blood sugar spikes and maintaining energy levels.

3. Natural Preservative:

In addition, The acidic environment created during sourdough fermentation helps inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and molds, acting as a natural preservative. This can extend the shelf life of sourdough bread without the need for chemical additives.

4. Enhanced Nutrient Profile:

As a matter of fact, sourdough fermentation not only improves mineral absorption but also increases the availability of certain vitamins, such as B vitamins and folate, in the bread. This can contribute to a more nutrient-rich diet.

5. Potential Gluten Tolerance:

Another key point, some individuals with mild gluten sensitivities or non-celiac gluten sensitivity find that they can better tolerate sourdough bread. The long fermentation process breaks down gluten proteins to a certain extent. This makes the bread more digestible for those with minor gluten-related issues.

6. Unique Flavor and Aroma:

Certainly, the distinct tangy flavor and aroma of sourdough bread are beloved by many. This unique taste profile sets sourdough apart from other bread varieties, adding a layer of culinary pleasure to your meals.

7. No Commercial Yeast:

Furthermore, sourdough relies on wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria naturally present in the environment and the sourdough starter. This means you can bake bread without the need for store-bought yeast, contributing to sustainability and reducing reliance on commercial products.

8. Long Shelf Life:

Additionally, properly stored sourdough bread can stay fresh for an extended period due to its natural preservative qualities. This can reduce food waste and the need for frequent trips to the bakery or grocery store.

9. Artisanal Appeal:

In conclusion, Making sourdough bread is a craft that many find deeply rewarding. It allows for creativity in shaping, scoring, and flavoring the bread, making each loaf a unique work of art and a source of pride for home bakers.

Overall, sourdough bread offers a range of nutritional, digestive, and culinary advantages that make it a standout choice for those looking to enjoy bread with added health benefits and a delightful taste profile. To find out the answers to many of your sourdough questions, read our comprehensive guide to sourdough.

Get Started Making Easy Sourdough Flatbread: Ingredients and Tools

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of active sourdough starter (or sourdough discard)
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• Oil for cooking (olive oil, lard, tallow, or coconut oil are all great choices)

Tools:

• A rolling pin
• A cast-iron skillet or frying pan
• A bench scraper
• Parchment paper
• A tea towel or beeswax wrap
• A large mixing bowl

Making the Easy Sourdough Flatbread Dough

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the active sourdough starter (or discard), flour, milk, and salt. Stir until a dough ball forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little bit of flour.
2. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured work surface for a couple of minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape it into a ball.
3. Let the Dough Rest: Place the dough ball in a greased bowl, cover it with a tea towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the dough to ferment and develop flavor.

Shaping and Cooking the Easy Sourdough Flatbread

1. Divide the Dough: After the dough has rested and doubled in size, divide it into equal pieces. This recipe typically makes 4-6 flatbreads.
2. Rolling Out the Flatbreads: On a floured work surface, use a rolling pin to roll each dough ball into a perfect circle or oval, about 1/4 to 1/8-inch thick.
3. Cooking on the Stove Top: Add a small amount of oil and preheat a cast iron pan or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook each flatbread for about a minute on the first side, then flip it and cook for an additional minute on the second side. You’ll notice the flatbread puffing up – that’s the magic of the sourdough at work!
4. Finishing Touches: Brush the cooked flatbreads with melted butter (we love garlic butter) or a little olive oil for that extra golden brown finish. Garnish with fresh parsley and some flaky sea salt.

Enjoying Your Easy Sourdough Flatbreads

Sourdough flatbreads are incredibly versatile. You can serve them with a variety of toppings like sour cream, white beans, or even use them as pizza bases. They make great naan bread or rustic pitta breads, perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces.

Storage Tips for Easy Sourdough Flatbread

If you have leftovers (although that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for future use.

All in All

Sourdough discard flatbreads are a wonderful addition to your homesteading and homemaking repertoire. They not only reduce food waste but also provide you with a delicious, rustic, and gluten-free alternative to traditional bread. Give this easy sourdough flatbread recipe a try, and you’ll be amazed at the incredible flavor and texture you can achieve with just a few simple ingredients and some sourdough magic.

Happy baking!

Try more sourdough recipes:

• Sourdough Pie Crust
• Sourdough Crepes
• Sourdough Bread

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