Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough

Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough is the ultimate choice for pizza lovers looking for a quick yet flavorful dough option. This recipe highlights the unique tang of sourdough discard, resulting in a deliciously crispy and golden crust. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or movie nights, this pizza dough is versatile and easy to prepare. With no long waiting times, you can enjoy homemade pizza without the hassle!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The use of sourdough discard adds a rich, complex taste that standard doughs can’t match.
• Quick Preparation: No need for lengthy proofing times—this dough is ready to rise in just 30 minutes!
• Versatile Base: You can customize your pizza with any toppings you love, from classic cheese to creative veggie combos.
• Crispy Crust: Achieve a perfectly golden brown and crispy crust without complicated techniques.
• Easy Cleanup: Minimal equipment is needed, making cleanup a breeze after enjoying your delicious creation.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth process and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (or large mixing bowl)
• Dough hook attachment
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pizza stone (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Speeds up the mixing process and ensures thorough kneading for the best texture.
• Dough hook attachment: This tool kneads the dough evenly, allowing it to develop gluten for a better rise.
• Pizza stone: Helps achieve an evenly baked crust with a perfect crisp by retaining heat during baking.

Ingredients

To make Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough, gather these fresh ingredients:

For the Dough

• 3/4 cup warm water (115º Fahrenheit)
• 0.25 ounces Red Star Platinum Instant Yeast (1 package)
• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons cornmeal
• 2 3/4 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
• More cornmeal for dusting the pan

How to Make Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Put warm water in the bowl of a stand mixer or large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add in the sourdough discard, sugar, salt, olive oil, cornmeal, and flour. Mix them using the paddle attachment just until combined.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Switch to the dough hook attachment and knead on low speed for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Cover with plastic wrap and let rest in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until almost doubled in size.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 550º Fahrenheit. If using two baking stones, place one on each of two racks in the oven.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheet

Place a large piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet (preferably one without sides). Sprinkle additional cornmeal on top.

Step 7: Shape Your Dough

Stretch out your pizza dough by pressing it lightly with your fingertips until it’s at your desired size and thickness. Avoid rolling it with a pin to keep those air bubbles intact!

Step 8: Add Toppings

Top with your favorite pizza toppings. Carefully slide the parchment paper with your pizza onto the lower pizza stone.

Step 9: Bake Your Pizza

Bake for about 14 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it as baking times may vary based on thickness.

Step 10: Serve Hot

Once done, remove from the oven, slice up your delicious pizza, and serve immediately while it’s hot! Enjoy!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough

Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Classic Margherita

• Fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil create a simple yet delicious pizza that highlights the sourdough flavor.

Pepperoni Delight

• Top your pizza with spicy pepperoni slices for a traditional favorite. Add some extra cheese for that gooey goodness!

Veggie Supreme

• Load up on your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. This option is both colorful and packed with nutrients.

BBQ Chicken

• Use shredded chicken tossed in barbecue sauce as a topping. This sweet and tangy combination pairs perfectly with the crust.

Mediterranean Style

• Incorporate feta cheese, olives, and artichokes for a Mediterranean twist. A sprinkle of oregano adds an aromatic touch.

Dessert Pizza

• Transform your dough into dessert by spreading Nutella or cream cheese icing, then top with fruits like strawberries or bananas for a sweet finish.

How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough

For the best results with Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough, consider these helpful tips.

• Use warm water: Ensuring your water is around 115º Fahrenheit helps activate the yeast effectively.

• Knead properly: Kneading for about 10 minutes develops gluten, giving you that perfect chewy texture.

• Let it rise: Allowing the dough to rest until it’s almost doubled in size enhances flavor and creates air bubbles for a lighter crust.

• Preheat thoroughly: Make sure your oven reaches 550º Fahrenheit before baking to achieve a crispy crust.

• Avoid rolling pins: Stretching the dough by hand preserves air bubbles, resulting in a lighter and crispier pizza base.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough

Adding side dishes to your meal can elevate the experience. Here are some great options to pair with your pizza.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing provides a refreshing crunch alongside your pizza.

2. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic breadsticks or slices make for an irresistible side that complements any pizza flavor.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring out natural flavors and add nutritious elements to your meal.

4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light and flavorful option.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese make for an elegant appetizer that pairs well with pizza.

6. French Fries: Crispy fries provide comfort food vibes; opt for sweet potato fries for a healthier alternative.

7. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats (like turkey), cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables creates a delightful shareable option.

8. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds freshness to balance the richness of the pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough can be straightforward, but small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Ignoring the temperature: Ensure your water is at 115º Fahrenheit. Too hot or too cold can kill the yeast or slow down the activation.
• Over-kneading the dough: Knead just until smooth. Over-kneading can make the crust tough instead of light and airy.
• Using too much flour: Add flour gradually. Too much can lead to a dry dough, resulting in a dense pizza base.
• Rolling out the dough: Don’t use a rolling pin! This pops air bubbles. Instead, press the dough with your fingertips for a lighter crust.
• Skipping the resting period: Allow the dough to rise properly. Skipping this step can affect texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pizza in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough

• Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough

• Oven: Preheat to 375º Fahrenheit and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm, but this may make it chewy.
• Stovetop: Place it in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough that might help you.

How do I know if my sourdough discard is active?

Your sourdough discard should have bubbles and a pleasant smell. If it’s flat and has an off odor, it’s best not to use it.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can! All-purpose flour will work fine but may yield a slightly different texture compared to bread flour.

How long does Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough take to rise?

Typically, it takes about 30 minutes for the dough to rise until almost doubled.

What toppings work best with Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough?

You can customize your pizza with various toppings like vegetables, cheeses, and lean meats according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough offers a delicious way to utilize leftover sourdough starter while creating a flavorful crust. Its versatility allows you to experiment with different toppings and flavors. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is!