Sourdough Discard Pizza Crust: A Crispy and Chewy Delight

Creating pizza at home can be a fun and delicious experience, especially when you incorporate sourdough discard into your crust. This recipe not only prevents food waste but also yields a crust that is both crispy and chewy, providing the perfect base for your favorite toppings.

Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or simply craving a homemade pie, this sourdough discard pizza crust is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Visual Appeal: The golden-brown crust with a bubbly, slightly charred surface makes for an enticing pizza presentation.
Perfect Pairing: Pair your sourdough pizza with a fresh salad or a glass of robust red wine for a complete meal.
Occasions to Serve: This pizza is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or movie nights at home.

Recipe Overview

Servings: 2 medium pizzas
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1-2 hours resting time)
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 250 calories per slice (based on 8 slices per pizza)

Nutrition Information

Calories: 250 per slice
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 400mg

Cook and Prep Times

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 1-2 hours
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients List

For the Pizza Crust:

1 ½ cups sourdough discard (active)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup warm water (if needed)

For the Toppings (suggested):

1 cup marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, vegetables, etc.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, salt, sugar, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add warm water a little at a time until it reaches a slightly sticky consistency.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
Shape the Pizza Crust: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a round shape on a floured surface, creating a thin crust.
Add Toppings: Transfer the shaped crust onto a piece of parchment paper. Spread a layer of marinara sauce, sprinkle mozzarella cheese, and add your favorite toppings.
Bake: Carefully transfer the pizza (with the parchment) onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a couple of minutes, slice, and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Sourdough Pizza Crust

Use Active Sourdough Discard: Ensure your sourdough discard is bubbly and active for the best flavor and texture.
Experiment with Flours: You can mix all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added flavor and nutrition.
Let the Dough Rest: Allowing the dough to rest after shaping helps improve the texture and makes it easier to stretch.
Don’t Skip the Preheating: A hot oven is crucial for achieving that crispy crust.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dough is too sticky: Add a little more flour while kneading until the dough is manageable.
Dough is too dry: Incorporate warm water a teaspoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
Crust is not crispy: Ensure the oven is preheated and consider using a pizza stone for better heat distribution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sourdough discard that’s been in the fridge? Yes, but let it come to room temperature and ensure it’s still active before using it.
Can I freeze the pizza crust? Absolutely! Shape and par-bake the crust, then freeze it. When ready to use, just add toppings and bake directly from frozen.
What toppings work best? Any favorite toppings will work, but classic combinations like margherita or pepperoni are always a hit.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary.

Conclusion

This sourdough discard pizza crust is a fantastic way to use up leftover sourdough while creating a delicious homemade pizza. With its crispy exterior and chewy interior, it’s a delightful base for your favorite toppings. Enjoy the process of making it, share it with friends and family, and savor each delicious bite!