Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots Soft Buttery
If you keep a sourdough starter, you’ve probably stared at that jar of discard more times than you can count, wondering how to use it without baking another loaf. These sourdough discard garlic knots are one of the most rewarding answers. They turn leftover starter into soft, fluffy knots coated in warm garlic butter, making something comforting, practical, and genuinely crave worthy, much like these Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread that also transform discard into something irresistible.
This recipe is designed for real home kitchens. You do not need advanced bread skills or a carefully timed feeding schedule. The dough comes together with everyday pantry ingredients, rises easily, and bakes into tender knots with a subtle sourdough tang. Whether you serve them as a side, a snack, or a shareable appetizer alongside soups such as Chickpea Soup, they disappear fast and leave everyone asking for more.
What makes these garlic knots special is the balance. The sourdough discard adds depth without overpowering. The dough stays soft inside while the outside turns lightly golden. A generous brushing of garlic butter at the end ties everything together, giving you bakery style results with very little effort, perfect for serving with fresh salads like Arugula Salad.
Why You Will Love These Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots
These garlic knots are more than just a way to avoid wasting sourdough discard. They are a recipe you will come back to again and again because they fit so easily into everyday cooking.
They are approachable, even if you are new to working with dough. The steps are simple and forgiving, and the dough is easy to handle. You do not need special equipment or complicated techniques, making them an excellent alternative to snack style bakes like Sourdough Cheese Crackers.
They are also incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside pasta, soups, salads, or enjoy them on their own with a dipping sauce. You can keep them classic or customize them with herbs, cheese, or a little heat, similar to how adaptable dishes like Healthy Pasta Salad can be.
Most importantly, they taste amazing. Soft, buttery, and fragrant with garlic, they deliver comfort in every bite while making good use of something that might otherwise be thrown away.
Why Sourdough Discard Is Perfect for Garlic Knots
Sourdough discard adds a subtle depth of flavor to garlic knots without making them overly sour. It enhances the dough’s structure while keeping the knots soft and tender. Using discard also makes this recipe practical and satisfying, especially for home bakers who want to reduce waste, much like repurposing discard in Sourdough Discard Crackers.
The mild tang pairs beautifully with buttery garlic flavor, creating a more complex taste than regular yeast dough.
Key Ingredients For Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots
Each ingredient plays an important role in creating knots that are soft, flavorful, and well balanced. You do not need anything fancy, just simple staples used thoughtfully.
- Sourdough discard
Adds gentle tang and moisture to the dough. Unfed discard works perfectly and keeps the recipe simple. - All purpose flour
Forms the structure of the dough, giving the knots their soft but chewy texture. - Sugar
Helps activate the yeast and encourages light browning in the oven without making the knots sweet. - Salt
Enhances flavor and keeps the dough balanced. - Instant yeast
Gives the dough a reliable rise, making this recipe easy and consistent. - Warm water
Brings the dough together and helps the yeast do its job. - Olive oil
Adds richness and keeps the interior tender. - Butter
Used for brushing after baking, creating a rich, glossy finish. - Garlic
Fresh garlic provides that bold, aromatic flavor that defines garlic knots. - Herbs
Parsley or mixed herbs add freshness and color. Dried herbs can be used if needed. - Optional cheese or spice
Grated cheese or a pinch of chili flakes can be added for extra flavor.
How To Make Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots
These steps guide you through the process from mixing the dough to pulling warm knots from the oven. Take your time and enjoy the process.
- In a large bowl, mix the sourdough discard, warm water, and sugar until smooth. This helps distribute the discard evenly and wakes up the yeast.
- Add the flour, salt, and instant yeast to the bowl. Stir until a rough dough forms and everything comes together.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for several minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft but not sticky.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven and prepare a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Gently deflate the risen dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope, then tie it into a loose knot.
- Arrange the knots on the prepared tray, leaving space between them. Cover lightly and allow them to rest until slightly puffed.
- Bake until the knots are lightly golden and cooked through.
- While they are still warm, brush generously with melted butter mixed with garlic and herbs. Add cheese if using.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Ideas For Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots
These garlic knots fit into almost any meal and work just as well for casual dinners as they do for gatherings. A simple presentation makes them feel inviting and homemade.
- Serve with a bowl of tomato based dipping sauce for a classic pairing.
- Add them to a pasta night as a flavorful side, especially with dishes like Greek Orzo Pasta Salad.
- Pair with soups or stews to soak up every last drop.
- Include them on a sharing board with cheese and olives.
- Offer them warm as an appetizer with extra garlic butter on the side.
They are also great for brunch spreads or potlucks, where easy to grab food is always appreciated.
How To Store And Reheat Garlic Knots
Freshly baked garlic knots are best enjoyed warm, but they store surprisingly well with the right approach.
- At room temperature
Keep cooled knots in an airtight container for short term storage. Reheat briefly before serving. - In the refrigerator
Store in a sealed container for several days. Warm in the oven to restore softness. - Freezing
Wrap individually and freeze for longer storage. Thaw before reheating for best results. - Reheating tips
Use the oven rather than the microwave when possible. A light brush of butter before reheating helps revive flavor and texture.
Helpful Tips For Perfect Garlic Knots
- Do not add too much flour during kneading, as a softer dough leads to fluffier knots
- Tie the knots loosely so they have room to expand while baking
- Brush with garlic butter as soon as they come out of the oven for maximum flavor
- Taste the butter mixture and adjust garlic or salt to your preference
Best Baking Temperature for Soft Garlic Knots
Baking at the right temperature ensures the knots cook through while staying soft. Too much heat can dry them out, while low heat may prevent proper rise.
A preheated oven is key for consistent results.
Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
For the Garlic Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, warm water, sugar, olive oil, and yeast. Mix well.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Knots: Divide dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and tie into a knot.
- Second Rest: Place knots on a lined baking tray and let them rest for 10–15 minutes.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Garlic Butter Topping: Mix melted butter, garlic, parsley, salt, and oregano. Brush generously over hot knots. Sprinkle with Parmesan if desired.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Sourdough discard should be room temperature for best results.
- You can refrigerate shaped knots overnight and bake fresh the next day.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy garlic knot variation.
- These garlic knots freeze well after baking, reheat before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
Conclusion
These sourdough discard garlic knots prove that simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. They are soft, buttery, and full of flavor, all while giving new life to sourdough discard that might otherwise go unused. From mixing the dough to brushing on that final layer of garlic butter, every step is straightforward and rewarding.
Whether you bake them for a family meal, a casual gathering, or just because you have discard to use up, this recipe is one you can rely on. Save it, make it your own with small variations, and enjoy having a go to way to turn leftover starter into something everyone loves.
