When it comes to sourdough baking, it’s often a battle between our love for freshly baked bread and the pesky sourdough discard that accumulates during the feeding process. What if I told you that “discard” may just be the most versatile item you have on your kitchen counter? Using your discard from your sourdough starter is a great way to create delicious recipes and reduce waste. From the sweet treats such as brownies, to breakfast pancakes and sweet breads! Your discard is the most versatile ingredient in your kitchen! One such way to use them is to replace those store bought tortillas with this super simple, versatile sourdough discard tortillas!
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Why Store-Bought Tortillas Should Be Avoided
While the convenience of store-bought tortillas is undeniable, there are several compelling reasons to consider making your own sourdough discard tortillas rather than reaching for the mass-produced alternatives. Here are some key points to ponder:
- Preservatives and Additives: Many store-bought tortillas contain a long list of preservatives and additives to extend their shelf life. These artificial ingredients may not align with a healthy or natural diet and can lead to health concerns for some individuals.
- Quality Control: When you make your own tortillas, you have full control over the ingredients. You can select high-quality, organic, and non-GMO components, ensuring a healthier and more wholesome final product.
- Flavor and Freshness: Homemade tortillas, especially those crafted from sourdough discard, offer a unique flavor profile that’s hard to replicate in store-bought versions. The mild sourdough tang and the freshness of homemade tortillas are hard to beat.
- Customization: Store-bought tortillas come in a limited range of options, but when you make your own, you can customize the size, thickness, and flavor to suit your preferences. This level of personalization enhances your culinary experience.
The Magic of Sourdough Discard
Sourdough discard is a game-changer in the kitchen. It adds a complex, tangy flavor profile to your tortillas, along with a delightful chewiness. This transformation results from the lactic acid and natural yeast activity in the discard, which infuses a subtle sourdough character into the tortillas. The result? A harmonious blend of the classic tortilla’s texture and a mild sourdough twist, making them a unique and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Versatile Uses
Sourdough discard tortillas are incredibly versatile. Use them for:
- Tacos: Swap out regular tortillas with these for an exciting twist on your favorite tacos.
- Quesadillas: They’re perfect for creating gooey, cheesy quesadillas with a hint of tanginess.
- Wraps: Turn your lunch into a gourmet experience by using these tortillas for your wraps.
- Breakfast Burritos: Add a delightful kick to your morning routine by making breakfast burritos with sourdough discard tortillas.
Tips and Tricks
- Measure Accurately: For consistent results, use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients accurately.
- Rest the Dough: Let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes before rolling. This makes it easier to work with and improves the texture.
- Hot, Dry Pan: Preheat your skillet or pan thoroughly before cooking the tortillas. A hot, dry surface prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Keep Them Moist: Stack cooked tortillas and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft and pliable.
Sourdough Discard Tortillas
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, all-purpose flour, water, and salt.1 cup sourdough discard, 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup water, 1/2 tsp salt
- Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead it for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Rest the Dough
- Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Divide and Roll
- Divide the dough into 8 small, equally-sized portions, and roll each into a ball.
- On a floured surface, roll each ball into a thin, round tortilla.
Cook the Tortillas
- Heat a dry skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook each tortilla for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they puff up and develop golden brown spots.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your sourdough discard tortillas warm with your choice of filling.
Storing and Reheating
To store these tortillas for long-term use, stack them with parchment paper in between each one and place them in an airtight container or a Ziplock bag. Keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for several months.
To reheat, you can either microwave them for a few seconds, wrap them in a damp towel and steam them, or place them in a hot, dry pan for a quick refresh.
