Name: Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 3 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 100 g sourdough starter (or discard); 300 g water; 6 g instant yeast; 30 g butter (melted); 390 g all-purpose flour; 30 g sugar; 6 g sea salt; 15 g butter (soft); 1 teaspoon parsley (dried); 2 teaspoons garlic powder (or 2 minced garlic cloves); Black pepper (optional, to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 1 review

There is something truly magical about these buttery, flavorful bites known as the Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots Recipe. Using sourdough discard not only helps reduce waste but also elevates these garlic knots with a subtle tang that perfectly balances the rich garlic and herb flavors. Each knot is delightfully soft on the inside with a golden, slightly crispy exterior, making them an irresistible treat whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or alongside your favorite meal.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows nineteen raw dough knots placed on brown parchment paper. Each dough knot is twisted with visible texture lines and some small dark seeds or spices mixed inside. The knots are arranged in a scattered pattern across the parchment. The background surface is a white marbled texture, and part of a blue and white striped cloth with a woman's hand is visible on the right side. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a joy because each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, taste, and aroma. From the tangy sourdough starter to the fragrant garlic and buttery finish, these essentials combine to make magic in your kitchen.

100 g sourdough starter (or discard): Adds a subtle tang and natural fermentation that improves flavor and texture.
300 g water: Hydrates the dough to create a soft, pliable consistency.
6 g instant yeast: Provides extra rise power for light, airy knots.
30 g butter (melted): Infuses richness directly into the dough for tenderness.
390 g all-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough, giving structure and chewiness.
30 g sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness that balances the garlic.
6 g sea salt: Enhances all the other flavors while controlling yeast activity.
15 g butter (soft): Used for the garlic butter topping that makes these knots so irresistible.
1 teaspoon parsley (dried): Adds fresh herbal notes and a lovely green speckle.
2 teaspoons garlic powder (or 2 minced garlic cloves): The star flavor that makes these knots unforgettable.
Black pepper (optional): A hint of spice to deepen the flavor profile.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start by combining the water, sourdough starter or discard, instant yeast, melted butter, flour, sugar, and sea salt in your stand mixer bowl. Using the dough hook attachment, mix until the dough becomes soft and elastic, which usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. This step develops the gluten, giving the knots their chewy, airy texture that's so delightful to bite into.

Step 2: First Rise

Once your dough is well-mixed, cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot. Let the dough rest and rise for about 2 hours or until it has nearly doubled in size. This fermentation time allows the flavors to deepen and the dough to become wonderfully light and fluffy.

Step 3: Shaping the Knots

On a floured surface, gently transfer your risen dough and roll it out into an 8 by 15 inch rectangle. Evenly spread the soft butter across the dough surface, then sprinkle the garlic powder, dried parsley, and black pepper over top. Cut the dough into three long strips, then each strip into six smaller pieces, making 18 rectangles. Cut each small rectangle in half to end up with 36 pieces. Now comes the fun part: take two pieces at a time and twist them around each other to form a knot. Repeat until you have 18 perfect garlic knots ready to rise again.

Step 4: Second Rise and Baking

Arrange the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between them to expand. Let them rise for about one hour until they become visibly puffy. Bake your knots until golden brown and beautifully cooked through. The final touch? Brush them with more melted butter right out of the oven to keep them soft and bring out that luscious garlic aroma.

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots Recipe

The image shows a white plate with six round, swirled bread rolls stacked on top of each other. The rolls have a light golden brown crust with herbs sprinkled on them. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with scattered herbs around it. To the top left, there is a white plate with similar bread rolls slightly out of focus. On the right side, there is a glass jar filled with white flour, some flour spilled on the surface near it. A striped cloth is partially visible at the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or a little grated Parmesan on top immediately after baking can add extra vibrancy and flavor. A light drizzle of olive oil or a brush of chili-infused butter can elevate the experience further. Feel free to get playful with your favorite herbs or spices to make these knots your own.

Side Dishes

These garlic knots are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve alongside your favorite pasta, soups, or stews to soak up every last drop of sauce. They also make a fantastic companion to salads or roasted vegetables for a lighter option that still satisfies savory cravings.

Creative Ways to Present

Throw your knots in a basket lined with a cozy kitchen towel for a casual gathering or arrange them on a nice platter with small bowls of marinara, garlic butter, or pesto for dipping. Creating a garlic knot board alongside cheese, cured meats, and olives turns them into a perfect party centerpiece that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 7 to 10 days, allowing you to enjoy their garlicky goodness well beyond the first feast.

Freezing

You can freeze these knots before or after baking. To freeze unbaked knots, place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When frozen, bake them directly from the freezer with an added baking time. For baked knots, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag to enjoy months later.

Reheating

Reheating is simple and ensures your garlic knots stay moist and tasty. Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. For an extra buttery finish, brush again with melted butter before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of bread flour?

Yes! This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which works beautifully. Bread flour would give a slightly chewier texture, but all-purpose flour keeps the knots tender and soft.

What if I don't have sourdough discard?

No worries! You can still make these garlic knots using just yeast. The sourdough discard adds flavor and reduces waste, but the yeast ensures rise and texture, so they come out delicious either way.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Absolutely! Using minced fresh garlic will give a stronger, more vibrant garlic flavor. Just be careful not to burn it during baking as fresh garlic can brown faster than powder.

How long do the knots keep their freshness?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the garlic knots remain fresh for up to 10 days in the fridge. For best texture, consume within the first few days or refresh by warming before serving.

Are these knots suitable for vegans?

This recipe includes butter, so it is not vegan as written. However, you can substitute with plant-based butter alternatives to make a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing taste or texture.

Final Thoughts

This Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots Recipe is such a joyful way to turn simple ingredients into a warm, comforting treat you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special occasion, these garlic knots bring smiles all around. Give them a try and watch how they become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need