Sourdough Discard Crackers: The Perfect Crispy Snack

Have you ever heard of crackers made with sourdough discard? These crackers are a crunchy delight that reminds us of classic saltines, but with a special twist. Besides being a great way to avoid food waste, they are surprisingly easy to make and absolutely delicious. Ready to learn how to make Sourdough Discard Crackers?

In just a few steps, you’ll have a healthy and delicious snack, perfect for afternoon tea or an elevated breakfast.

Ingredients for Sourdough Discard Crackers:

• 150g (approx. 3/4 cup) sourdough discard (preferably stiff)
• 50g (approx. 1/3 cup) rice flour
• 20g (approx. 2 tbsp) all-purpose flour
• 4g (3/4 tsp) salt
• A pinch of baking soda
• 30g (2 tbsp) extra-virgin olive oil or vegetable oil
• Seeds to taste (white or black sesame, chia, etc.)

How to make Sourdough Discard Crackers:

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rice flour, salt, and baking soda. Add your preferred seeds and mix well.
2. Add the oil: Incorporate the olive oil (or vegetable oil) into the dry ingredients, mixing until it forms a paste. This helps to incorporate the sourdough discard in the next step.
3. Mix in the discard: Add the sourdough discard to the mixture and stir until a smooth dough forms. There is no need to knead; just mix well.
4. Roll out the dough: Place the dough between two sheets of plastic wrap and roll it out with a rolling pin until it is 2 to 3 mm thick. The dough should be quite thin.
5. Cut the dough: Poke holes in the dough with a fork and cut into squares of approximately 2×2 inches (5×5 cm).
6. Bake the crackers: Transfer the squares to a greased baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes, until the crackers are crispy and lightly golden. If your oven is very powerful, you can bake without preheating to prevent them from burning.
7. Let cool: Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack to ensure they stay nice and crunchy.

Pro Tip:

To ensure your Sourdough Discard Crackers turn out perfectly, pay close attention to your oven. Every oven is different, so watch the crackers closely while they bake. They need to dehydrate rather than just bake, as they are very thin and can burn easily. Another great tip is to get creative with your seeds. Sesame, chia, flaxseed, or a mix of them can add extra flavor and crunch. You can also experiment with seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of chili flakes for an intense flavor boost.

Prep time:

• Prep: 20 minutes
• Bake: 10-15 minutes
• Total: 30-35 minutes

Yield:

This recipe makes approximately 20 crackers, depending on the size you cut them.

Fun Fact:

Sourdough, or natural leaven, is one of the oldest forms of fermentation used in baking. It is believed to date back over 5,000 years to Ancient Egypt. Sourdough is composed of flour and water that, when combined, capture wild yeasts and bacteria from the environment, resulting in natural fermentation. This process not only helps the bread rise but also improves its digestibility and flavor. Unlike commercial yeasts that act quickly, sourdough ferments the dough slowly and gradually, developing complex flavors and a unique texture.

Additionally, sourdough has health benefits. The prolonged fermentation breaks down phytates present in the grains, making minerals more bioavailable. It can also aid in digestion, thanks to the beneficial bacteria that develop during the process. When you use sourdough discard for recipes like these crackers, you are making the most of these benefits while reducing food waste.

So, the next time you wonder what to do with your sourdough discard, remember this Sourdough Discard Crackers recipe. It’s a delicious and practical way to enjoy every bit of your natural leaven, creating a healthy and irresistible snack for you and your family.