Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits Recipe

Creating the perfect Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits brings a delightful warmth to any kitchen. The first time I made these biscuits, it was a gray, rainy afternoon. I longed for something comforting and aromatic to fill the house with warmth and flavor. As I combined my love for sourdough and fresh herbs, the scent alone transported me into a cozy culinary haven.

These Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits not only cater to the senses but also bring a sense of joy. Each bite offers a flaky texture and a burst of flavor. Whether enjoyed during breakfast or as an accompaniment to dinner, these biscuits always impress. The combination of sourdough discard and sharp cheddar cheese creates a unique twist that leaves everyone asking for more.

This recipe captures the essence of hearty comfort food. Making these biscuits from scratch brings not just satisfaction but also a sense of accomplishment in the kitchen. Dive into making a batch of these Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits, and let the joyful aroma transform your home.

Understanding the Basics of Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits

Fundamentals

Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits are an innovative take on traditional biscuits. The addition of sourdough discard enhances the biscuit’s flavor profile, making them more robust compared to standard recipes. You might wonder how these ingredients come together to create those wonderful layers. The secret lies in the technique of mixing and folding.

The light texture and rich flavor of these biscuits come from a combination of cold butter and the right leavening agents. Using baking powder and baking soda ensures perfect rise and fluffiness. The critical moment occurs when you incorporate cold ingredients, allowing the butter to remain solid, which contributes to the biscuits’ flakiness.

Preparation/setup

Before diving into the preparation, gather all ingredients and ensure the butter remains frozen. Chilling the butter helps create those signature flaky layers in your biscuits. When measuring out ingredients, precision is key. Invest time in getting your measurements right; it makes a significant difference in the outcome.

Make sure your kitchen is stocked with a sturdy rolling pin and a biscuit cutter. These tools become essential in creating the perfect shape and texture. Set your work surface up with ample flour to prevent sticking as you roll out the dough.

Ingredients

• 280 grams (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 8 grams (2 teaspoons) baking powder
• 3 grams (1/2 teaspoon) baking soda
• 4 grams (1 teaspoon) sugar
• 5 grams (3/4 teaspoon) salt
• 113 grams (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, frozen
• 113 grams (1 cup) cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2-3 Tablespoons of fresh herbs (such as thyme, chives, or parsley)
• 3 grams (1/2 teaspoon) garlic powder
• 200 grams (2/3 cup) sourdough discard, cold
• 120 grams (1/2 cup) half & half, cold
• 28 grams (2 Tablespoons) butter, melted

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt until well combined.

2. Grate the frozen butter using a cheese grater. Incorporate it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles small peas. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, fresh herbs, and garlic powder, mixing to combine everything thoroughly.

3. In a measuring cup, whisk together the cold sourdough discard and cold half and half until smooth. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour the wet ingredients in. Mix using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until a shaggy dough forms.

4. If dry flour remains unincorporated, gradually add extra half and half, about 15 grams at a time, until most of the flour becomes mixed in.

5. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and pat it gently until it holds together as a single mass. Form it into a large rectangle while being careful not to overmix.

6. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, roughly 9 inches by 11 inches. Fold it in half lengthwise and then again. Repeat this rolling and folding process one more time to achieve those flaky layers.

7. Roll out the dough to approximately 1/2 inch thickness. Using a floured biscuit cutter, cut out biscuits without twisting the cutter. This ensures they rise beautifully.

8. Reroll the scrapes to create more biscuits until you have around 8-9 in total.

9. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F while placing the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Position them about 1/2 inch apart to encourage rising.

10. Place the biscuits in the freezer for at least 20 minutes while the oven heats. This helps solidify the butter for optimal flakiness as they bake.

11. Bake the biscuits for 17-20 minutes until golden brown. If they brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.

12. While baking, melt the remaining butter in a small bowl. Brush the baked biscuits with melted butter before serving warm.

Mastering the Technique of Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits

Technique

Mastering the technique for Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits requires practice but is a rewarding process. The keys lie in the mixing and handling of the dough. Aim for a gentle touch when combining ingredients to urge the biscuits to rise sky-high.

Chilling the ingredients plays a vital role in achieving the desired texture. Cold butter is your friend here; it needs to stay solid during mixing. This solid state allows the butter to create steam as it melts while baking, resulting in those lovely flaky layers.

Ensure to use a light hand when rolling out the dough. Overworking the dough can lead to tough biscuits. Instead, use quick motions to maintain that tender, fluffy texture.

Tips and Tricks

A few tips can elevate your Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits to the next level. Always use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Experiment too; mix and match different herb combinations to see what you like best.

Consider adding spices for an extra kick, adjusting according to your palate. Changing the type of cheese can also yield varying flavors — pepper jack or gouda can add a delightful twist.

If you have leftover dough scraps, don’t discard them. Reroll them carefully once, maintaining a soft touch with minimal handling to avoid tough biscuits. Enjoy the slight variations in shape and size that come with the process.

Perfecting Your Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits

Perfecting results

To ensure your Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits turn out perfectly every time, focus on the main components: temperature and timing. Baking at a high temperature promotes quick rising.

Experiment with your oven’s positioning too. If you have hot spots, rotate the biscuits halfway through baking to achieve even browning.

For added texture, consider sprinkling coarse sea salt on top just before baking. This gives an appealing finish and enhances the flavor of each biscuit.

Troubleshooting Variations

If your biscuits don’t rise as you’d like, check the effectiveness of your leavening agents. Make sure they are fresh. Adding an extra pinch of baking powder or soda can invigorate the dough if needed.

For a lighter biscuit, add an additional tablespoon of half and half if the dough appears too dry. Adjust in small increments to avoid making the mixture too wet.

Storing garlic and herb sourdough biscuits

These biscuits tend to be best when enjoyed fresh but can be stored just fine. Let them cool completely before wrapping in plastic or placing in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week.

If planning to eat them later, consider freezing them. Place cooled biscuits in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, restoring that flaky goodness.

Serving and Presentation of Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits

Serving and presentation

For an appealing presentation, stack your Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits on a rustic plate or a wooden board. The gorgeous, layered structure will catch attention, enhancing their appeal. Garnish with a sprinkle of herbs for a touch of freshness, signaling the delicious flavors within.

Pair these biscuits with creamy soups or salads. Their robust flavor balances beautifully with light meals. The flaky texture complements smooth sauces, encouraging a delightful experience with every bite.

Pairings and Storage

These biscuits are versatile enough to complement various dishes. They pair well with savory spreads, or enjoy them plain with a pat of butter for a simple yet delicious option.

Store uneaten biscuits in an airtight container or wrap them tightly. Keeping them in a cool, dry place retains their freshness. A quick reheating can return their delightful flakiness, making each bite as enjoyable as the first.

Incorporating these Garlic and Herb Sourdough Biscuits into your meal planning adds warmth and heartiness to any gathering. Enjoy the flavorful adventure these homemade delights offer!

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