Create the fluffiest, most wonderfully tangy pancakes using your leftover sourdough starter discard. This easy, zero-waste recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or relaxed weekend brunch.
Author:Claire
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:25 min
Yield:About 8 medium pancakes 1x
Category:Breakfast
Method:Griddling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with 1 teaspoon lemon juice, rested 5 minutes)
2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, plus more for the griddle
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This is your dry mix.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, egg, and buttermilk until just combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently whisk until the batter comes together. A few lumps are fine; do not overmix. Overmixing develops gluten and leads to flat pancakes.
Let the batter rest on the counter for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the leavening agents to activate, which is the secret to achieving maximum loft.
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium heat. You know the griddle is ready when a drop of water sizzles immediately.
Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve immediately with butter, maple syrup, or fresh berries.
Notes
For extra tangy flavor, you can mix the batter the night before and let it rest in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
If you do not have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of whole milk with 1 teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
For the fluffiest results, use the baking powder and baking soda in this recipe; they work with the acidity of the discard to create lift.