Sourdough Discard Focaccia
Chef James AI
Make crispy, airy sourdough discardfocaccia with this easy, no-knead recipe! Perfect for beginners, with simple ingredientsand delicious flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 4 hours hrs 35 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean
Servings 8 Slices
Calories 180 kcal
Basic Dough Ingredients
- ½ cup 120g sourdough discard (unfed, room temperature)
- 2 ½ cups 315g all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
- 1 cup 240ml warm water (helps activate gluten for a soft texture)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for richness and a tender crumb
- 1 teaspoon salt balances flavor
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar optional, enhances browning
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast helps with a reliable rise, especially in cooler kitchens
For Topping & Flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for that classic crispy crust
- Flaky sea salt sprinkled on top for extra crunch
- Fresh rosemary or thyme adds an aromatic touch
- Garlic cloves thinly sliced (optional, for deeper flavor)
- Cherry tomatoes olives, or cheese (for extra variation)
Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, warm water, and honey (or sugar) until combined.
Add the flour, yeast, and salt, then mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
Drizzle in olive oil, folding it into the dough until fully absorbed. The dough will be wet—that’s normal!
First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature for 3–4 hours, or until doubled in size.
For deeper flavor, place the dough in the fridge for an overnight cold fermentation (8–24 hours).
Shape the Focaccia
Grease a baking pan generously with olive oil to ensure a crispy bottom.
Transfer the dough to the pan, gently stretching it toward the edges. Don’t force it—let it rest for 10 minutes if needed.
Once relaxed, use oiled fingertips to dimple the dough, creating deep pockets for that signature focaccia texture.
Add Toppings & Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Drizzle the dough generously with olive oil and sprinkle with flaky salt, fresh rosemary, and garlic slices.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp.
Let it cool slightly before slicing—then enjoy the fluffy, flavorful bread you just created!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
Keyword Sourdough discard focaccia