Day: June 8, 2025

# Weekly Sourdough Discard Banana Bread Recipe

Sourdough discard refers to the excess starter that many bakers end up with after feeding their sourdough starter. Rather than discarding it, you can creatively reuse it in several recipes, with banana bread being among the favorites. This article offers a straightforward and tasty recipe for banana bread that makes use of sourdough discard, enabling you to cut down on waste while indulging in a delightful pastry.

## Ingredients

– **1 cup (240g) sourdough discard** (unfed)
– **2 ripe bananas** (mashed)
– **1/3 cup (80ml) melted butter** (or vegetable oil)
– **1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar** (or brown sugar)
– **1 large egg** (room temperature)
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**
– **1 teaspoon baking soda**
– **1/4 teaspoon salt**
– **1 teaspoon ground cinnamon** (optional)
– **1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour**
– **1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips or nuts** (optional)

## Instructions

### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

### Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas and combine them with the melted butter. Mix until fully blended. Add the sourdough discard, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the blend is smooth and all components are combined.

### Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). This helps ensure even distribution of the baking soda within the flour.

### Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring softly until just blended. Take care not to overmix; a few lumps are acceptable. If you like, fold in chocolate chips or nuts at this point.

### Step 5: Bake
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too rapidly, cover it with aluminum foil.

### Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, take the banana bread out of the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and relish your tasty sourdough discard banana bread!

## Tips for Success

– **Bananas:** The more overripe the bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will turn out. Search for bananas with brown spots for optimal results.
– **Storage:** Keep the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for as long as a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
– **Variations:** Feel free to adapt your banana bread by incorporating ingredients like shredded coconut, dried fruits, or spices like nutmeg or ginger.

## Conclusion

This weekly sourdough discard banana bread recipe provides a wonderful opportunity to utilize leftover starter while baking a scrumptious and moist treat. With straightforward ingredients and simple preparation, it’s ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Take pleasure in the accomplishment of minimizing waste and enjoying a homemade delight!

**Stir-Fried Asparagus with Vegetables and Sauce: A Delicious and Nutritious Delight**

Stir-frying is a popular cooking technique that originated in China and has become a staple in kitchens around the world. It involves cooking ingredients quickly over high heat, allowing them to retain their flavor, color, and nutritional value. One delightful dish that exemplifies the art of stir-frying is Stir-Fried Asparagus with Vegetables and Sauce. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal.

**Ingredients and Nutritional Benefits**

The primary ingredient in this dish is asparagus, a spring vegetable known for its tender texture and distinct flavor. Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate and fiber. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress.

In addition to asparagus, this dish typically includes a variety of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. Bell peppers are high in vitamin C and beta-carotene, while carrots are known for their high vitamin A content. Snap peas add a sweet crunch and are a good source of vitamins C and K.

**The Sauce: A Flavorful Finish**

The sauce is a crucial component of stir-fried dishes, adding depth and richness to the flavors. A typical sauce for Stir-Fried Asparagus with Vegetables might include soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil. Soy sauce provides a salty umami flavor, while garlic and ginger add aromatic notes. Sesame oil contributes a nutty essence that complements the vegetables perfectly.

For those who prefer a bit of heat, adding a dash of chili flakes or a splash of sriracha can elevate the dish with a spicy kick. Alternatively, a hint of honey or brown sugar can be added for a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory elements.

**Cooking Method**

1. **Preparation**: Begin by washing and trimming the asparagus, then cut it into bite-sized pieces. Slice the bell peppers and carrots into thin strips, and remove the strings from the snap peas if necessary.

2. **Stir-Frying**: Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and ginger, stirring quickly to prevent burning. Add the asparagus and other vegetables, stirring constantly to ensure even cooking.

3. **Adding the Sauce**: Once the vegetables are tender-crisp, pour in the prepared sauce. Continue to stir-fry for another minute, allowing the sauce to coat the vegetables evenly.

4. **Serving**: Remove the dish from the heat and serve immediately. Stir-Fried Asparagus with Vegetables can be enjoyed on its own or served over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a more substantial meal.

**Conclusion**

Stir-Fried Asparagus with Vegetables and Sauce is a versatile and nutritious dish that can be easily adapted to suit personal tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant side dish, this stir-fry offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to please. With its array of colorful vegetables and flavorful sauce, it’s a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body.