Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots

A cold afternoon spent indoors often leads to an adventure in the kitchen. There’s something comforting about the smell of baking bread wafting through the house. Discovering a jar of sourdough discard sitting in my fridge felt like finding a hidden treasure. With that little bit of starter, I decided to create something special: sourdough discard garlic knots.

These knots transform a simple dough into a delightful treat. Their golden-brown color and buttery garlic flavor make them irresistible. Each bite reveals that chewy texture characteristic of sourdough, enriching the experience. Whether as a snack or a side, they never last long on the table.

Crafting these garlic knots became a new family tradition. The thrill of pulling apart those pillowy, garlicky knots brought everyone together. As we enjoyed each one, laughter filled the room, and I couldn’t help but think about how perfectly they complement so many meals. Sourdough discard garlic knots embody warmth and togetherness, making any gathering feel special.

Homemade Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots

Fundamentals

Making sourdough discard garlic knots begins with understanding the dough’s core components. The essential ingredients include all-purpose flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and sourdough discard. Each plays a significant role in flavor, texture, and rise.

Sourdough discard introduces a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic. This delightful fermented essence enhances the knots, making them unique. Moreover, instant yeast accelerates the rising process, ensuring each knot stays light and airy.

On to the milk! Warmed to about 110℉, it activates the yeast, kickstarting the fermentation process that makes these garlic knots tender and fluffy. The balance of fat from melted butter enriches the dough, bringing a golden hue when baked.

Preparation/setup

Preparation begins with measuring ingredients accurately. Gather the necessary items, ensuring you have everything at hand. It saves time and ensures a smoother cooking process.

Start by warming the milk gently. Use a thermometer to check the temperature, aiming for 110℉. Combining the warm milk with sugar and instant yeast helps the yeast awaken. Let it sit for around five minutes until bubbly, indicating successful activation.

Next, prepare your mixing bowl. Add the flour, sourdough discard, beaten egg, garlic powder, and salt. Incorporate the mixture gradually while blending with the stand mixer on low speed. This technique allows you to achieve the desired dough consistency without overwhelming the mixer.

Ingredients

• ½ cup + 2 teaspoons non-dairy or regular dairy milk (warmed to 110℉)
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 200 grams (about ¾ cup) sourdough discard (unfed, at room temperature)
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
• 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• Flaky sea salt

Directions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warmed milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast.
2. Add in the flour, sourdough discard, beaten egg, garlic powder, and salt.
3. With the mixer set to low speed, slowly pour in 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
4. Increase the speed to medium until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Transfer the dough to a smooth surface and knead until it becomes smooth and slightly tacky, roughly 3-4 minutes.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and allow it to rise for approximately 90 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
7. Line two half-sheet baking pans with parchment paper.
8. Turn the risen dough onto a smooth surface and divide it into 16 equal pieces.
9. Roll each piece into a 10-inch long rope and fold the ends over to tie a loose knot.
10. Arrange the shaped garlic knots on the prepared baking sheets. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel for 30 minutes for the second rise.
11. Preheat the oven to 375℉. Brush the knots with the remaining melted butter.
12. Bake for 16-18 minutes until the knots just begin to brown.
13. For the topping, melt 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then stir in the chopped parsley and garlic powder.
14. Once the knots come out of the oven, brush them immediately with the parsley and butter mixture.
15. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and serve warm.

Twisting and Shaping Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots

Technique

Shaping these garlic knots is a rewarding task that adds a personal touch to your dish. Begin with dividing the dough evenly, as each knot should be roughly the same size. Precision ensures that all knots bake evenly, giving them a uniform look and texture.

When rolling out each piece into a rope, use a gentle touch to avoid overworking the dough. Too much handling can develop gluten too quickly, making the knots tough rather than light and fluffy.

Creating the knot itself involves folding the ends over one another and gently placing them in the desired shape. There should be no tension in the dough at this stage, as tension can lead to uneven rising and less tender knots.

Tips/tricks

For the best results, consider these handy tips. First, keep a close eye on the dough while it rises. Environmental factors, like temperature and humidity, can affect rising time. The dough should double in size, signaling it’s ready for the next step.

Second, when brushing the knots with butter before baking, ensure every nook and cranny gets a touch of that garlic flavor. It transforms each bite into a savory experience.

Lastly, don’t rush the second rise. It makes a significant difference in texture. If time allows, letting the knots sit longer can enhance their fluffiness.

Mastering the Experience of Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots

Perfecting results

Perfecting garlic knots involves understanding the delicate balance of ingredients and technique. The hydration level in your dough can vary, so adjusting flour and liquid accordingly helps achieve that ideal tackiness without stickiness.

Feel free to experiment with the amount of garlic powder based on personal taste. Some might enjoy a stronger garlic punch, while others may prefer a subtle hint. Adding fresh minced garlic can also elevate the flavor profile, giving the knots a fresh, vibrant taste.

Additionally, consider using different herbs for variety. Thyme or oregano can create an exciting twist on this classic recipe. Mixing the herbs into the melted butter for brushing can allow those flavors to permeate each bite.

Troubleshooting/variations

It’s essential to troubleshoot common dilemmas. If the knots don’t rise as expected, check the yeast’s freshness. Expired yeast can lead to disappointing results. If you notice some knots are browning too quickly in the oven, rotate the baking sheets halfway through to ensure even baking.

Variations can include adding cheese for a stuffed garlic knot experience. Incorporating mozzarella creates a melty surprise inside each roll. Alternatively, try adding finely chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.

Elevating the Meal with Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots

Serving/presentation

Serving these garlic knots takes creativity. Arrange them on a large platter, stacking them for visual impact. Garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an inviting presentation.

These knots pair wonderfully with various dishes, making them flexible for occasions. Consider serving them alongside soups, stews, or salads. Their robust garlic flavor is a perfect complement to milder dishes, enhancing both texture and taste.

Pairings/storage

While discussing pairings, it’s vital to explore complementary flavors without needing traditional accompaniments. For example, pair these garlic knots with marinara sauce or a garlic aioli for dipping. The flavors complement each other remarkably, making each bite satisfying.

For storage, these knots keep best in an airtight container at room temperature. If you have leftovers, consider reheating them briefly in the oven to restore their warm, fresh-baked characteristics. Alternatively, freeze any extras for future enjoyment. When ready, reheat straight from the freezer, allowing the knots to regain their delightful texture.

Sourdough discard garlic knots turn an often-overlooked ingredient into a beloved family favorite. With every step, this recipe unlocks layers of flavor, creating captivating moments around the dining table. Each knot tells a story of creativity and family connections that inspire countless additional meals to come. Embrace the process, relish the aromas, and enjoy every savory bite.

Print