Oh, the joy of a bubbling sourdough starter! It’s a rhythmic dance of flour and water, creating pure magic in our kitchens. But let’s be honest, that dance often leaves us with a little extra — our beloved sourdough discard. Instead of letting it go to waste, I’ve found some of the most comforting and surprising ways to transform it, proving that even a humble discard can become the star of a heartwarming meal. It’s all about embracing that tangy, nuanced flavor, adding a touch of something special to everyday dishes.
I still remember my grandmother, bustling in her kitchen, never letting a single crumb go to waste. She’d say, “Sara, every ingredient tells a story, and it’s our job to find its happiest ending.” Her wisdom taught me to look at ingredients with new eyes, to see potential in what others might overlook. It’s a philosophy I carry with me to this day, especially when it comes to baking and cooking with our active (or not-so-active) starters.
This recipe for Hearty Sourdough Discard Tomato & Herb Soup is a testament to that philosophy — it’s incredibly easy to bake, perfect for a cozy family dinner, and surprisingly quick to come together. My practical tip for any sourdough discard recipe? Always have a jar in the fridge; inspiration often strikes when you least expect it!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Crafting this comforting soup starts with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand. From the aromatic sauté of yellow onion, carrots, and celery, to the rich depth of crushed tomatoes, each element plays its part beautifully. Of course, our star, the sourdough discard, lends an unexpected but delightful tang and body, making this soup truly unique. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and precise measurements waiting for you in the recipe card below!
How to Make Sourdough Discard
Creating this delicious sourdough discard soup is a journey in three simple acts. First, we build a flavorful base, sautéing our vegetables until sweet and tender. Then, we introduce the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and our star sourdough discard, letting everything simmer beautifully before blending it to a creamy perfection. Finally, we finish with a touch of heavy cream and fresh herbs for that final flourish, transforming humble ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort.
Hearty Sourdough Discard Tomato & Herb Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the sourdough discard and stir well to combine with the vegetables. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes. The discard will cook down and coat the vegetables slightly, and its sour notes will mellow.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, and dried basil to the pot. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become very tender.
- Remove the pot from the heat. For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer batches to a regular blender (be cautious with hot liquids and blend in small amounts, venting the lid). If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip this step.
- Stir in the salt and black pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed. If using, stir in the heavy cream or milk for a richer, creamier texture. Heat through gently for another 2-3 minutes if adding cream, but do not boil. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped basil, and serve hot.
Notes
Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. If adding cream, it’s best to add it after thawing and reheating, as cream can sometimes separate when frozen.
Variations: For extra protein, add cooked shredded chicken or white beans during the last 10 minutes of simmering. A swirl of pesto or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese also makes a lovely garnish.
Discard Hydration: While 100% hydration discard is preferred, slightly thicker or thinner discard will work. Adjust cooking time for the discard slightly if it’s very thick.
Making this Hearty Sourdough Discard Tomato & Herb Soup is a joy, and with a few little tricks I’ve learned over the years, yours will be absolutely perfect.
When sautéing your aromatics—onions, carrots, and celery—take your time. Allowing them to soften and sweeten slowly forms the foundational flavor of your soup, and it truly makes all the difference. Don’t rush this step!
My Secret Trick: Before adding the crushed tomatoes and broth, I always make sure to lightly toast the dried herbs—oregano and basil—in the hot olive oil for about 30 seconds. This awakens their essential oils, deepening their flavor and infusing the entire soup with a more vibrant, aromatic profile, especially when cooking with sourdough discard.
For the creamiest texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If you’re using a standard blender, work in batches and be extremely careful when blending hot liquids, only filling it halfway and securing the lid with a kitchen towel.
Don’t be shy with seasoning. Taste as you go, especially after adding the vegetable broth and again before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and even a touch more red pepper flakes if you like a little warmth.
Fun Variations for Sourdough Discard
One of the most delightful things about cooking with sourdough discard is how versatile it is! This tomato and herb soup is a fantastic canvas for your own creative touches. Here are a few ways to make it uniquely yours:
Smoky Swirl: My sister always loves when I add a smoky element. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika along with your dried herbs, or even a tiny splash of liquid smoke (just a drop or two!). It brings a wonderful depth that complements the tang of the sourdough discard beautifully.
Veggie Boost: For an extra nutritional punch, consider simmering in some finely chopped zucchini or spinach during the last 10 minutes before blending. They melt right into the soup, adding goodness without overpowering the main flavors.
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit more heat, double up on the red pepper flakes or add a finely diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) when you sauté the garlic. A friend of mine swears by a dash of hot sauce right before serving for a vibrant kick!
Cheesy Comfort: For an extra layer of richness, stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese right after blending, allowing it to melt into the hot soup. A swirl of pesto also adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.
What to Serve With Sourdough Discard
This Hearty Sourdough Discard Tomato & Herb Soup is truly a meal in itself, but a few thoughtful accompaniments can elevate it to a full, comforting experience. When I serve a soup this delicious, I love to offer options that complement its robust flavors and the unique tang from the sourdough discard.
Crusty Bread: My absolute favorite pairing is a slice of warm, crusty bread – perhaps even a homemade sourdough loaf! It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of that flavorful broth. A simple grilled cheese sandwich also makes for a classic, comforting duo.
Fresh Green Salad: To balance the richness of the soup, a light, crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette is always a welcome addition. It adds a refreshing contrast and a lovely bit of crunch.
Garnish Galore: Don’t forget the garnishes! A swirl of extra heavy cream, a sprinkle of fresh basil, a dash of freshly ground black pepper, or even some homemade croutons can transform each bowl. My mom always loved a dollop of sour cream on her tomato soup.
How to Store Sourdough Discard
After all the love you’ve put into this Hearty Sourdough Discard Tomato & Herb Soup, you’ll want to ensure any leftovers are just as delicious the next day! Luckily, this soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.
Fridge Storage
Once cooled completely, transfer your leftover sourdough discard soup to an airtight container. It will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave until heated through. I like to add a splash of extra broth or water if it’s thickened too much.
Freezer Tips
This soup is also a fantastic candidate for freezing! Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat gently on the stovetop. My personal tip for reheating is to always finish with a fresh sprinkle of herbs and a fresh grind of black pepper – it truly revitalizes the flavors.
Nutritional Benefits
This Hearty Sourdough Discard Tomato & Herb Soup is more than just a comforting bowl; it’s packed with goodness! The base of wholesome vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions provides essential vitamins and fiber, while the crushed tomatoes are a fantastic source of antioxidants. Integrating sourdough discard adds a unique flavor dimension and can contribute beneficial microbes, making this a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
While you technically could, this recipe is specifically designed to use sourdough discard (unfed starter) for its unique flavor and consistency. Using active starter might change the texture and tang slightly, but for best results, stick with the discard.
Faq 2
Do I have to blend the soup?
No, you don’t have to blend it! If you prefer a chunkier, more rustic soup, you can certainly leave it as is after simmering. Blending simply gives it a smoother, creamier texture, which many people enjoy with a hearty tomato and herb soup.
Faq 3
What kind of vegetable broth should I use?
I always recommend using a good quality, low-sodium vegetable broth. This gives you more control over the final seasoning of your sourdough discard soup. Organic broths often have a richer, more natural flavor that truly shines through.
Faq 4
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! To make this Hearty Sourdough Discard Tomato & Herb Soup vegan, simply omit the heavy cream. You can substitute it with a plant-based cream alternative, like unsweetened cashew cream or coconut cream, for a similar rich texture.
Conclusion
There’s something truly magical about transforming simple ingredients into a dish that wraps you in comfort, and this Hearty Sourdough Discard Tomato & Herb Soup does just that. It’s a testament to the joy of making something wonderful from what might otherwise be overlooked, bringing warmth and flavor to your table. So, gather your sourdough discard, embrace the process, and create a bowl of soup that’s not just food, but a memory in the making. Happy cooking, dear friends!