Ah, the delightful world of sourdough! If you’ve ever dabbled in baking your own bread, you probably know the struggle of dealing with sourdough discard. It can be a bit of a head-scratcher, right? You want to keep that funky starter alive and kicking, yet those cups of discard can stack up quickly! Well, I have a scrumptious solution that not only helps use up that leftover starter but also gives you a delicious, fluffy treat: Sourdough Discard Protein Biscuits!
These biscuits are a real game changer in my kitchen. They’re not just a clever way to utilize that discard; they’re packed with protein and bursting with flavor thanks to the addition of cheese and fresh herbs. I remember the first time I made these little gems; the aroma wafting through my kitchen was almost magical. The best part? They’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for a quick breakfast or a delightful snack paired with soup or salad. Trust me, you’ll want to bake these on repeat!
What’s in Sourdough Discard Protein Biscuits?
Let’s break down the star-studded cast of ingredients that make these biscuits sing:
Sourdough Discard: This is the star of our show! Not only does it add a unique tangy flavor, but it also contributes to the light, fluffy texture of the biscuits. Make sure it’s at room temperature for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of any good biscuit! It provides structure and leaves you with that flaky, tender crumb we all crave.
Protein Powder: Whether you opt for whey or plant-based, this ingredient boosts the biscuit’s protein content, making them a perfect post-workout snack.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: We need these leavening agents to create that all-important lift. They help the biscuits rise beautifully!
Salt: A dash of salt enhances all the flavors. Don’t skip this step!
Grated Cheese: I like to use sharp cheddar for its robust flavor, but feel free to get creative with your cheese choices here!
Chopped Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a bright, fresh taste that sets these biscuits apart.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter ensures the biscuits are rich and tender. You can’t go wrong with this addition!
Buttermilk: The acidity in buttermilk reacts with the baking soda, helping to tenderize the dough while adding a delightful flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, mixing regular milk with vinegar works just fine!
Optional Cheese for Topping: Because who doesn’t love more cheese? Sprinkle some on top before baking for an extra cheesy finish!
Is Sourdough Discard Protein Biscuits Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health! These biscuits offer a balanced snack with a protein punch, making them great for energy and muscle recovery, especially if you’re on the go.
Protein Powder: This is fantastic for those looking to up their protein intake. It’s especially beneficial post-workout or as a part of a healthy breakfast.
Sourdough Discard: Using discard not only reduces waste, but it also introduces beneficial probiotics into your diet, potentially aiding in digestion.
Fresh Herbs: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, they add flavor and color to your biscuits without adding calories.
However, be mindful of the cheese and butter content if you’re watching your saturated fat intake. Moderation is key, as with most delicious things in life!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup sourdough discard
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup protein powder (whey or plant-based)
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar added)
– Optional: additional cheese for topping
*This recipe serves about 12 biscuits.*
How to Make Sourdough Discard Protein Biscuits?
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty and make some biscuits!
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. (Pro tip: Don’t skip this step; it makes cleanup a breeze!)
2. In a large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, all-purpose flour, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well blended.
3. Stir in the grated cheese and chopped herbs. Oh boy, this is where the deliciousness begins!
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter and buttermilk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and blend until just combined; remember, don’t overmix!
5. Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. These biscuits are going to puff up beautifully!
6. If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top of each biscuit because a little more cheese never hurt anyone!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Biscuits Beyond Basic!
A little creativity goes a long way, so here are some fun variations and serving suggestions:
– **Spicy Twist:** Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
– **Sweet and Savory:** Try adding a dash of garlic powder and a sprinkle of your favorite cheese for a twist on classic biscuits.
– **Serving Suggestions:** These biscuits are perfect alongside soup, or you can slice them open for a breakfast sandwich with eggs and avocado!
I can’t wait for you to try these Sourdough Discard Protein Biscuits! They’ll turn that leftover starter into a kitchen triumph that you’ll be excited to make time and time again. Don’t forget to share your biscuit-baking adventures with me! Enjoy every fluffy, cheesy bite!
