Are you tired of wasting your sourdough discard every time you feed your starter? Since I bake regularly, I often end up with extra discard, and I’m always searching for creative ways to put it to good use instead of throwing it away.
Recently, while preparing a hearty Irish stew, I decided to transform my latest batch of sourdough discard into dumplings. The result was incredible—soft, flavorful dumplings that elevated the stew and turned a simple meal into something truly comforting and satisfying.
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Key Takeaways:
- Sourdough discard dumplings are a zero-waste comfort food made from leftover starter.
- They are drop dumplings cooked directly in simmering soup or stew.
- The discard adds flavor, not leavening power.
- The recipe is quick, beginner-friendly, and requires basic pantry ingredients.
- Dumplings can be frozen and cooked later without losing quality.
- Best served in chicken soup, beef stew, or vegetable broth.
Overview
If you’re tired of wasting sourdough discard, these sourdough discard dumplings are a simple way to turn leftovers into a flavorful kitchen staple. Originally inspired by a cozy Irish stew, this recipe transforms discard into soft, comforting dumplings that are far more than just a zero-waste solution—they’re delicious, gut-friendly, and highly versatile. Perfect for soups, stews, pan-frying, or even air-frying, these dumplings deliver a satisfying texture with added nutritional benefits from naturally fermented sourdough. Fermentation may support gut health through prebiotic compounds, making this comfort food both nourishing and satisfying. This recipe is also highly adaptable: it’s vegan-friendly, freezer-friendly, and easy to customize with gluten-free flour, fresh herbs, or seasoning variations. With quick prep and practical storage options, you can enjoy homemade sourdough discard dumplings anytime—without stress, waste, or complexity.
SIS Tip - Simple is Smart Tip
Next time you have extra sourdough discard, turn it into dumplings and freeze them for later use. When you’re ready, simply take them straight from the freezer and add them to soups, stews, or pan-fry for a quick meal. You can also cook them in an air fryer for a crispy, convenient option without thawing.
Neuro and Gut Nutrition of Sourdough
Sourdough’s natural fermentation process encourages the growth of lactic acid bacteria, which may support a healthier gut microbiome. A balanced gut microbiome has been associated with better cognitive performance and a lower risk of certain neurological conditions. This means adding sourdough to your diet can help satisfy your cravings while also supporting brain and gut health.
Maintaining gut health is essential for overall wellness, and both prebiotics and probiotics play a key role in supporting a strong microbiome. For more prebiotic-rich recipe ideas, explore simple whole-food options that naturally nourish beneficial gut bacteria.
Sourdough Discard Dumplings
Ingredients
Sourdough Discard Dumplings
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tbsp Herb-de-Provence Herbs
- 2 tbsp cold vegan butter cut into pieces
- 1 cup sourdough discard (see notes if you don't have sourdough discard)
- 1 flax egg
Instructions
Sourdough Discard Herb Dumplings
- Make the flax egg by adding 3 tbsp of water to 1 tbsp of flax seed set aside and let the mixture sit for a minimum of 5 minutes.
- Add the herbs, salt and baking powder to the all-purpose flour - Mix
- Cut the cold vegan butter into pieces and cut the pieces into the flour mixture.
- Add the flax seed egg and sourdough discard to the flour-butter mixture.
- Combine with a fork until all the flour is moistened. Don't overmix. Add 1/4 to 1/2 tsp of water if the mixture is dry.
- Form the dough into 12 balls using a 1 ½ tbsp dough scoop.
- Add the dumplings to your favorite soup or stew and cook for 5 minutes.
- Freeze the dumplings in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Defrost in the fridge and add the dumplings to the soup or stew. Cook until just tender about 5-7 minutes.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
FAQ:
Can I use saved sourdough discard instead of fresh?
Can I make these gluten-free?
What if I can’t find Herbs de Provence?
How should I store unused dumplings?
Can I air-fry the dumplings instead of boiling them?
Why is sourdough good for gut health?
Final Thoughts
Sourdough discard dumplings are a simple yet creative way to turn leftover starter into something warm, comforting, and delicious. Instead of wasting discard, this recipe transforms it into soft, flavorful dumplings that perfectly enhance soups and stews. Beyond being a practical zero-waste kitchen idea, it also adds a subtle tangy depth that makes every bite more satisfying. Whether you’re focused on sustainability, saving money, or just trying something new in your sourdough journey, these dumplings are a great reminder that even “discard” can become something truly special.
