What to Use Sourdough Bread For: 5 Amazing Uses Beyond Sandwiches

The tangy aroma, the satisfying chew, the delightful crust – sourdough bread is a culinary treasure. But beyond the classic toast, what are the endless possibilities of this beloved bread? From savory sandwiches to sweet treats, sourdough’s versatility knows no bounds. Let’s explore some creative and delicious ways to use sourdough bread and elevate your culinary game.

Sourdough Sandwiches: A Flavorful Upgrade

Sourdough’s unique flavor and texture make it the perfect canvas for a variety of sandwich fillings. The slightly sour notes complement both savory and sweet ingredients, creating a symphony of taste.

Classic Choices:

• Grilled Cheese: Elevate the humble grilled cheese with sourdough’s tang and crusty exterior. The bread will soak up the melted cheese and create a satisfyingly gooey bite.
• BLT: Sourdough’s hearty texture stands up to the juicy bacon, crisp lettuce, and flavorful tomatoes. The bread’s tang adds a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the bacon.
• Roast Beef and Horseradish: The sharp horseradish pairs beautifully with the sourdough’s tang, while the roast beef adds a satisfying richness.

Beyond the Ordinary:

• Tuna Melt: Sourdough’s tang complements the creamy tuna filling. Add a touch of spice with jalapeños or a dollop of sriracha.
• Caprese: Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil are elevated by sourdough’s crusty exterior and slightly sour flavor.
• Egg Salad: The tang of sourdough balances the richness of the egg salad, creating a light and refreshing sandwich.

Sourdough Croutons: A Flavorful Crunch

Sourdough croutons are a culinary revelation – they add a satisfying crunch and a touch of tang to salads, soups, and even pasta dishes.

Simple Preparation:

1. Cube sourdough bread into bite-sized pieces.
2. Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
3. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until golden brown and crispy.

Creative Variations:

• Garlic Croutons: Add minced garlic to the olive oil mixture for a flavorful and aromatic twist.
• Herbed Croutons: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a fragrant and flavorful addition.
• Spicy Croutons: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.

Sourdough Bread Bowls: A Hearty and Delicious Presentation

Sourdough bread bowls are a delightful way to serve soups, stews, and chilis. The bread itself becomes part of the meal, soaking up the delicious flavors of the broth.

Preparation:

1. Scoop out the center of a sourdough loaf, leaving a sturdy shell.
2. Toast the bread bowl lightly in the oven.
3. Fill with your favorite soup, stew, or chili.

Tips:

• Use a sturdy sourdough loaf for the best results.
• Don’t over-toast the bread bowl, as it can become too hard.
• Serve the bread bowl with a side of butter or cheese for dipping.

Sourdough Crumbs: A Flavorful Addition to Dishes

Sourdough crumbs are a versatile ingredient that can add texture and flavor to a variety of dishes.

Simple Preparation:

1. Pulse sourdough bread in a food processor until finely ground.
2. Toast the crumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown.

Creative Uses:

• Bread Pudding: Sourdough crumbs add a delightful crunch and a touch of tang to bread pudding.
• Stuffing: Use sourdough crumbs to create a flavorful and hearty stuffing for poultry or vegetables.
• Pancakes and Waffles: Add a tablespoon of sourdough crumbs to your pancake or waffle batter for a subtle tang and a touch of texture.

Sourdough Bread Pudding: A Comforting Dessert

Sourdough bread pudding is a classic dessert that is both comforting and delicious. The sourdough’s tang balances the sweetness of the custard, creating a truly satisfying treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of sourdough bread, cubed
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the cubed bread and stir to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.

Sourdough French Toast: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Sourdough french toast is a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch option. The sourdough’s tangy flavor and dense texture make it a perfect base for soaking up the custard.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of sourdough bread, sliced
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan

Instructions:

1. Whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract in a shallow dish.
2. Dip the bread slices in the custard mixture, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Grease the pan with butter or cooking spray.
5. Cook the french toast for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve warm with syrup, fruit, or whipped cream.

Sourdough Pizza Crust: A Flavorful and Chewy Base

Sourdough pizza crust is a culinary masterpiece. The sourdough’s tangy flavor and chewy texture create a perfect base for your favorite pizza toppings.

Tips:

• Use a sourdough starter that is active and bubbly.
• Let the dough rise slowly in a cool place for at least 12 hours.
• Preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet for at least 30 minutes before baking.

Sourdough Beyond the Kitchen: Creative Uses

Sourdough’s versatility extends beyond the kitchen.

• Facial Masks: The lactic acid in sourdough can help exfoliate and brighten the skin.
• Bird Feeders: Sourdough crusts can be used as a natural and delicious bird feeder.

A Culinary Journey with Sourdough

From savory sandwiches to sweet treats, sourdough bread offers a world of culinary possibilities. Embrace its unique flavor and texture, and let your creativity soar!

What You Need to Learn

Q: What is the best way to store sourdough bread?

A: Store sourdough bread at room temperature in a breathable bag or container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread in a freezer-safe bag.

Q: How can I tell if my sourdough starter is active?

A: An active sourdough starter will be bubbly and have a tangy smell. If your starter is inactive, you can revive it by feeding it with flour and water.

Q: Can I use sourdough bread for baking?

A: Absolutely! Sourdough bread can be used in a variety of baked goods, including muffins, cookies, and cakes. The tangy flavor will add a unique dimension to your baking.

Q: What are the health benefits of sourdough bread?

A: Sourdough bread is generally easier to digest than other types of bread due to the fermentation process. It is also a good source of fiber and nutrients.

Q: Can I make sourdough bread at home?

A: Yes, you can! There are many online resources and cookbooks that provide instructions for making sourdough bread at home. It’s a rewarding and delicious experience!