If you bake sourdough bread regularly you likely have leftover unfed sourdough starter sitting in your fridge. Instead of throwing it away you can use it in various delicious recipes. Unfed sourdough starter still has plenty of flavor and its slightly tangy taste adds a unique depth to baked goods and savory dishes.
This guide explores creative ways to use unfed sourdough starter so that none of it goes to waste.
What Is Unfed Sourdough Starter?
Unfed sourdough starter is the portion of the starter that hasn’t been refreshed with flour and water before baking. While it may not have the strength to leaven bread it still contains natural yeast and lactic acid bacteria that contribute to flavor and texture in recipes.
Using unfed starter is an excellent way to reduce food waste while enjoying a variety of baked and cooked goods.
Can You Use Unfed Sourdough Starter in Baking?
Yes! Even though it may not be active enough to make bread rise on its own unfed sourdough starter works well in recipes that rely on baking powder baking soda or eggs for leavening. It also adds a rich tangy taste that enhances many dishes.
Best Recipes for Unfed Sourdough Starter
1. Sourdough Pancakes
Pancakes made with unfed sourdough starter are light fluffy and slightly tangy. The acidity in the starter interacts with baking soda to create a tender texture.
How to Make It:
- Mix unfed starter with eggs milk and a little sugar.
- Add baking soda to help with fluffiness.
- Cook on a hot griddle until golden brown.
2. Sourdough Waffles
Similar to pancakes sourdough waffles benefit from the flavor and texture that an unfed starter provides. The result is crispy waffles with a soft interior.
How to Make It:
- Combine the starter with flour milk eggs and melted butter.
- Use baking powder or soda for leavening.
- Cook in a preheated waffle iron until crisp.
3. Sourdough Crackers
Homemade sourdough crackers are a great way to use up extra starter. They are crunchy flavorful and perfect for snacking.
How to Make It:
- Mix the starter with flour butter and salt.
- Roll the dough thin and cut into squares.
- Bake until golden and crispy.
4. Sourdough Flatbread
Flatbreads don’t require much leavening making them a great option for unfed sourdough starter.
How to Make It:
- Combine the starter with flour water and salt.
- Roll out and cook on a hot skillet.
- Brush with olive oil and top with herbs.
5. Sourdough Biscuits
Biscuits made with sourdough starter are flaky and flavorful. They rise well when combined with baking powder.
How to Make It:
- Mix the starter with flour butter and baking powder.
- Cut into rounds and bake until golden.
- Serve with butter or jam.
6. Sourdough Muffins
Muffins benefit from the slight tanginess of sourdough starter while remaining soft and moist.
How to Make It:
- Mix the starter with flour sugar eggs and oil.
- Add fruit chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.
- Bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Sourdough Brownies
Brownies made with unfed sourdough starter are extra fudgy and rich.
How to Make It:
- Mix melted chocolate butter eggs and sugar.
- Stir in the starter along with cocoa powder.
- Bake until set but still gooey in the center.
8. Sourdough Cake
Cakes can also incorporate sourdough starter to add moisture and a slight tang.
How to Make It:
- Combine the starter with flour sugar and eggs.
- Add vanilla or citrus zest for flavor.
- Bake until golden and soft.
9. Sourdough Pasta
Homemade pasta dough can include sourdough starter for an extra chewy texture.
How to Make It:
- Mix starter with flour and eggs.
- Knead until smooth and roll out.
- Cut into pasta shapes and cook in boiling water.
10. Sourdough Dumplings
Dumplings made with sourdough starter are fluffy and delicious in soups or stews.
How to Make It:
- Mix the starter with flour baking powder and salt.
- Drop spoonfuls into simmering broth.
- Cook until puffed and cooked through.
Storing Unfed Sourdough Starter
If you have more unfed starter than you can use right away store it properly:
- In the Refrigerator: It will last for weeks but may develop a liquid layer called “hooch.” Stir before use.
- In the Freezer: Freeze in small portions and thaw when needed.
Unfed sourdough starter is a valuable ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. From pancakes and waffles to crackers and brownies it adds a unique depth of flavor and helps reduce food waste. By exploring these ideas you can make the most of every bit of your sourdough starter.
