Are you ready to turn your sourdough discard into a delicious pizza crust? This simple and tasty recipe helps you avoid waste while enjoying a scrumptious meal. Using just a few basic ingredients from your kitchen, I will guide you through making the perfect crust. Whether you're a novice or a pro, you’ll impress your friends and family. Let’s dive in and create pizza magic together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This pizza crust comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner.
- Uses Sourdough Discard: It’s a fantastic way to reduce waste by using leftover sourdough starter.
- Customizable: You can top it with your favorite ingredients, from classic marinara to gourmet toppings.
- Crispy and Delicious: The high oven temperature ensures a perfectly crispy crust every time.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup warm water (adjust as needed)
- Cornmeal (for dusting)
You need just a few simple items to make this pizza crust. First, the star of the show is sourdough discard. This is the leftover starter that you usually throw away. It adds great flavor and texture to the crust.
Next, grab some all-purpose flour. This will give the dough structure. You’ll also need salt to enhance the taste. Dried oregano and garlic powder add a nice touch of flavor. A tablespoon of olive oil keeps the crust moist and tasty.
For the moisture, you’ll use warm water. Make sure to add it slowly to get the right dough consistency. Lastly, cornmeal is essential for dusting. This keeps the pizza from sticking to the surface.
With these ingredients, you can create a crust that is both simple and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Dough
1. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of sourdough discard, 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. This mix will form the base of your pizza crust.
2. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Start mixing the ingredients with a spoon or use your hands. You want the dough to begin to come together.
3. Gradually add in ½ cup of warm water. Do this slowly, adding a little at a time. You might not need all the water. The goal is to make the dough soft and slightly sticky.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to feel smooth and elastic.
Resting the Dough
1. Place the dough back in the bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rest for 30 minutes to an hour at room temperature. This step is key for good texture.
2. Resting allows the dough to relax. A relaxed dough is easier to roll out and will rise better in the oven.
Shaping and Baking
1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
2. After resting, roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. A thicker crust is about ½ inch, while a thinner crust is about ¼ inch.
3. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a piece of parchment paper dusted with cornmeal. This prevents sticking.
4. Now, add your favorite sauce and toppings on top of the dough.
5. Carefully slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes. You want the crust to be golden brown and crispy.
7. Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven. Let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy your delicious pizza!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Right Texture
Adjusting Water Amount The right water amount is key for a great crust. Start with ½ cup of warm water. Mix the dough and add more water slowly if needed. You want a soft and slightly sticky dough. But be careful, too much water can make it too wet. If your dough feels dry, add a little more water. A good dough will not stick to your hands too much.
Kneading Techniques Kneading helps develop gluten, which gives the crust a nice chew. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes. Use your palms to push the dough down and fold it over. Turn it a quarter turn and repeat. This technique helps the dough become smooth and elastic. If it feels too tough, keep kneading. Don’t rush this step; it makes a big difference.
Flavor Enhancements
Recommended Seasonings Adding seasonings boosts the flavor of your crust. I love using 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. These spices give the dough a tasty kick. You can also try adding some chili flakes for heat or a bit of grated cheese for extra flavor. Just remember, balance is key. You want the seasonings to enhance, not overpower.
Using Fresh Herbs Fresh herbs can take your pizza crust to the next level. Try adding chopped basil or thyme to the dough. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs, finely chopped. Mix them in with the dry ingredients. Fresh herbs add a bright, aromatic flavor. They make your crust taste even better and look more appealing.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Discard: For the best flavor, ensure your sourdough discard is fresh and has a pleasant tang. Old discard may lead to off-flavors in your crust.
- Resting Time Matters: Allowing your dough to rest not only develops flavor but also relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
- Preheat Your Baking Surface: Preheating your pizza stone or baking sheet is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Don’t skip this step!
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Seasonal vegetables, different cheeses, or unique sauces can elevate your pizza experience.
Variations
Toppings Ideas
You can get creative with pizza toppings! Here are a few tasty options:
- Classic Margherita: Use fresh mozzarella, basil, and a simple tomato sauce. This pizza is fresh and bright!
- Vegetable Medley: Load up on bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach. A drizzle of olive oil adds great flavor.
- Meat Lovers: Choose your favorites like pepperoni, sausage, and bacon. This option is perfect for meat fans!
Alternative Flours
If you want to try different flours, here are two great options:
- Whole Wheat: This flour gives your crust a nutty flavor and more fiber. It’s a healthy choice without losing taste.
- Gluten-Free Options: Use a gluten-free blend for a crust that fits your needs. Check the package for the right amounts of liquid to add.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Dough
To keep leftover dough fresh, refrigerate it. Put the dough in a bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days.
If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out any air. This dough can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before shaping.
Storing Cooked Pizza
After baking, let the pizza cool for a few minutes. Then, store any leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For reheating, the oven works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the pizza on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy and the toppings warm. You can also use a skillet. Just place the pizza in the pan over medium heat and cover it for about 5 minutes. This method helps the crust stay nice and crunchy.
FAQs
What can I do with leftover sourdough discard?
You can use sourdough discard in many tasty ways. It’s great for baking pancakes, muffins, or quick breads. You can also add it to soups for extra flavor. Some people use it to make crackers or even pancakes. Remember, it adds a nice tangy taste!
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size. You can poke it gently with your finger. If it springs back slowly, it’s ready. If it doesn’t spring back, let it rise a bit longer. Watching the dough rise is fun and rewarding!
Can I make this pizza crust vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this pizza crust vegan. Just replace the olive oil with a plant-based oil. You can also skip any egg or dairy toppings. This way, the crust stays tasty and plant-friendly. Enjoy your vegan pizza night!
How long do I bake the pizza if my oven doesn’t reach 475°F?
If your oven can’t reach 475°F, set it to the highest temperature available. Bake the pizza for about 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on it and look for a golden brown crust. This helps ensure your pizza is cooked well and delicious!
Making pizza from sourdough discard is simple and fun. We covered all the key steps, from ingredients to baking. You learned to mix dough, let it rest, and shape it for toppings. Don't forget tips for the best texture and flavor. Explore variations to fit your taste, from classic to alternative flours. Store your dough and pizza right to enjoy later. With these insights, you can make delicious pizzas that impress. Enjoy your baking journey!
