These Sourdough Discard Dumplings are a fun and tasty way to use leftover sourdough starter! They are soft, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up your favorite soups and sauces.
Making these dumplings is super easy and quick. I love whipping them up when I have some sourdough starter left over. They always disappear fast at our dinner table—who can resist these little pillows?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Discard: This is the star of the dish! You need at least one cup of unfed sourdough starter. If you don’t have any, you can use plain yogurt or kefir as a substitute for a tangy flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Regular all-purpose flour works well, but for a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may change a bit.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Using homemade broth adds a rich flavor, but store-bought works too. You can swap it with water or a combination of water and bouillon cubes for a lighter version.
Herbs: I love adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a fresh touch. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs such as thyme or dill can be substituted—just use less as they are stronger!
How Do You Get Fluffy Dumplings Every Time?
Achieving fluffy dumplings requires a few key steps. First, mix your ingredients gently; over-mixing can make them tough. Here’s how to get it right:
- Combine the sourdough discard, flour, and baking powder lightly.
- Add the beaten egg and milk gradually, stirring just until a sticky dough forms. It’s okay if the dough is a bit lumpy.
- Be sure your broth is simmering gently—not boiling—when you drop in the dumplings. Too much heat can break them apart.
- Cover the pot while cooking; this traps steam, encouraging the dumplings to rise beautifully!
Follow these tips, and you’ll whip up perfect dumplings ready to soak up all the delicious flavors!
How to Make Sourdough Discard Dumplings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup milk (plus more if needed)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots (optional, for broth)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 12-15 minutes for cooking. In less than half an hour, you can have delicious, fluffy dumplings ready to serve in a comforting broth!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dumpling Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently to mix them together. Next, beat the egg in a separate bowl and add it to the mixture. Gradually pour in the milk while stirring until a sticky dough forms. If your dough feels too dry, add a little more milk, or a bit more flour if it’s too wet.
2. Prepare the Broth:
In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle simmer. If you’re using chopped carrots for added flavor and nutrition, toss them into the broth. Season it lightly with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to get it just right.
3. Shape the Dumplings:
Once your dough is ready, use a spoon or your hands to shape small dumplings, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Don’t worry about being perfect; they can be a little rustic!
4. Cook the Dumplings:
Carefully drop the dumplings into the simmering broth one by one. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cover it with a lid and let them cook gently for 10-12 minutes, or until they puff up and are cooked through. If they look slightly undercooked, you can leave the lid off and let them cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Serve Your Dumplings:
Once the dumplings are ready, sprinkle your choice of chopped fresh herbs over the top for extra flavor and a pop of color. Serve them hot in the broth as a comforting dish, perfect for any meal!
Enjoy your light and fluffy dumplings made from sourdough discard—an easy and delicious way to reduce waste and enjoy a filling meal!
Can I Use Old Sourdough Starter for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your sourdough discard isn’t moldy or off-smelling. Otherwise, even older starter can work well, adding more flavor to your dumplings!
What If I Don’t Have Baking Powder?
No problem! You can substitute baking powder by using a mix of baking soda and vinegar. For each teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/4 tsp baking soda plus 1/2 tsp vinegar added to the wet ingredients. This will give the dumplings the lift they need!
How Should I Store Leftover Dumplings?
Leftover dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the broth over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze These Dumplings?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to cook them, add them directly to simmering broth without thawing—just increase the cooking time by a few minutes!