Sourdough pancakes

Tips for making sourdough pancakes from sourdough starter

• Using your sourdough starter discard to make fluffy pancakes is a great way to reduce food waste. The yeast in the discard is what helps the pancakes rise
• When making the batter, take care not to overmix, as this will result in a denser, chewier pancake. Leaving the mixture to rest for up to 24 hrs in the fridge will ensure a lighter, fluffier pancake, as the gluten will have relaxed and the yeast will have multiplied
• The pancake batter should sizzle gently when added to the hot pan. Cook, undisturbed, until small air bubbles appear in the batter, then flip once and cook for another couple of minutes until slightly spongy when pressed in the middle. This will ensure crispy edges and a fluffy texture
• As the yeast in the sourdough starter makes the pancakes rise, it's best to use a healthy, well-fed starter that's active and bubbling. If you use an older, less-active starter, the pancakes may have a sourer flavour and be flatter

Can these sourdough pancakes be made dairy-free?

To make the pancakes dairy-free, swap the butter for a dairy-free spread and use a plant-based milk alternative.

What is the best flour for sourdough pancakes?

You can experiment – we’ve gone for self-raising white flour, but you could also try wholemeal, spelt, buckwheat, rye, einkorn or bread flour. Note that some of the denser flours absorb more moisture, and will require more milk.

For different flavours and textures, try:

• Wholemeal and self-raising flours (50:50)
• Spelt and self-raising flours (50:50)
• Self-raising and buckwheat flours (90:10)

How to serve sourdough pancakes

Serve warm with butter, maple syrup and fresh berries, or try these other toppings:

• Chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts or pistachios
• Chocolate hazelnut spread
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate chips
• Chopped bananas
• A sprinkling of cinnamon or nutmeg
• Savoury toppings like spinach, grated cheddar, cottage cheese, chives or smoked salmon

Can these sourdough pancakes be made in advance?

• The pancake batter can be prepared and chilled for up to 24 hrs
• Fully cool the cooked pancakes on a wire rack, then chill in an airtight container for up to two days
• Reheat in a frying pan with a little butter until piping hot, or warm in the microwave on high for 20 seconds until softened

Can you freeze sourdough pancakes?

• The fully cooled, cooked pancakes can be frozen and stored in an airtight container for up to two months
• Defrost fully overnight in the fridge, then warm in a frying pan with a little butter or in the microwave for 20 seconds until hot