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Sourdough Discard Focaccia

A simple, flavorful focaccia bread that uses leftover sourdough starter discard to create crispy edges and a soft, airy interior.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Bread, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 cup sourdough starter discard
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 cup olive oil plus more for drizzling
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs such as oregano and thyme
  • Coarse sea salt for topping

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet or pan
  • Whisk or fork
  • Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup sourdough starter (discard) and 1 1/2 cups warm water to activate the yeast.
  2. Add 3 cups all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons salt to the bowl, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Drizzle in 1/4 cup olive oil and mix until the oil is fully incorporated into the dough.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for about 1 hour until bubbly.
  5. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and drizzle olive oil onto a baking sheet to prepare it.
  6. Gently transfer the risen dough to the oiled baking sheet, using your fingers to stretch it out to fit.
  7. Press your fingertips into the dough to create dimples across the surface.
  8. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs and coarse sea salt on top, then bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until golden and crispy.

Notes

For extra flavor, top with sliced olives, tomatoes, or cheese before baking.