How to Use Sourdough Discard: 9 Creative Ways to Reduce Waste

Instead of considering sourdough discard as waste, you can use it as a versatile ingredient in many creative ways. You can add it to recipes, use it around the house, or feed it to chickens.

What is sourdough discard?

Sourdough discard is a byproduct of refreshing sourdough starter. Each time you feed your starter with fresh flour and water, you remove a portion of the aged mixture. Discarding sourdough starter makes it stronger and healthier, which is important for making great sourdough bread.

How to use sourdough discard

Here is a handy infographic showing 9 ways to use sourdough discard.

1. Make sweet and savory recipes

Sourdough discard is a great addition to many recipes. Use it in pancakes, waffles, sweet bread muffins, and even savory dishes like sourdough gravy. The possibilities are endless, and it adds a unique tang to your cooking (see my guide to adding sourdough discard to any recipe).

2. Give it away

Consider giving a portion of your sourdough starter to friends or family, along with instructions for feeding it, rather than discarding it. By following the same feeding ratios and schedule, they can grow their own starter and begin baking sourdough bread at home.

3. Refrigerate it 

You can store sourdough discard in the fridge for up to a week. It is a good idea to discard any leftover starter each week when cleaning out your fridge, or use it in recipes to avoid waste.

4. Freeze it

Sourdough discard freezes well and can be stored for a long time. Freeze it in small portions, like ice cube trays, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Label the bag and store it in the freezer for up to one year. When you are ready to bake, you can always pull out a portion.

5. Dry it to keep a backup

Spread a thin layer of your discard onto parchment paper and let it dry completely. Once dried, grind it into a powder. You will be surprised, but this dehydrated discard can serve as a backup for a future starter, in case you need one. Follow the same steps you would for rehydrating sourdough starter.

6. Use the powdered discard

You can use the powdered discard in your baking. Try dusting your bannetons with it instead of rice flour. You can also substitute about 5% of the flour in a recipe with the powdered discard to give your bread and other baked goods an extra layer of flavor.

7. Add it to your skincare routine

You might not think of sourdough discard as a skincare product, but it can be used as a face mask.

After removing the makeup, gently apply a thin layer of fresh or thawed discard to your face, avoiding the delicate eye area. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with a warm washcloth. But be careful not to let the rinse water go down the drain, as the discard can cause clogs.

Using sourdough discard on your face has benefits due to its natural ingredients. However, it is important to perform a patch test first to check how your skin reacts. If you have any skin problems or concerns, consult a dermatologist before trying it.

8. Feed it to chickens

If you have chickens, give them a sourdough discard as a tasty, nutritious treat. Mix it with their regular feed to make it more appealing. Be sure to introduce it gradually so they can get used to it.

9. Add it to the compost pile

Sourdough discard can also be composted. Mix it with other compost materials, then cover it with a layer of browns, such as shredded paper or leaves. It will break down and add nutrients to your garden soil.

Let's talk sourdough

Which of these discard ideas will you try first in your kitchen, or do you have a unique way to use sourdough discard? Share your tips in the comments.