Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough

Making Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough is an exciting and delicious way to use your sourdough starter discard. This recipe yields an airy and chewy crust that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun pizza night with friends. The best part? It’s simple to make and requires minimal ingredients, allowing you to enjoy homemade pizza at its finest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This small batch dough comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight meals or last-minute gatherings.
• Unique Flavor: The sourdough starter gives the pizza dough a distinct tanginess that you won’t find in regular pizza crust.
• Versatile Toppings: Use any toppings you love! From fresh vegetables to savory meats, the options are endless.
• Perfect Texture: Achieve that ideal balance of crunch and chewiness with this dough, thanks to the fermentation process from the sourdough.
• Minimal Waste: This recipe helps reduce food waste by utilizing leftover sourdough starter discard.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes creating your Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough much easier. Below are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring scale
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
• Baking sheet or pizza stone

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining your ingredients efficiently.
• Measuring scale: Precise measurements ensure consistent results every time you make this dough.
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel: These help in covering the dough during resting periods to maintain moisture.
• Baking sheet or pizza stone: A good baking surface promotes even cooking and crispness in your crust.

Ingredients

To create your small batch sourdough pizza dough, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 50 grams active sourdough starter discard
• 250 grams all purpose flour
• 175 grams water
• 5 grams salt (1 teaspoon)
• 15 grams olive oil (1 tablespoon), divided

How to Make Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter discard, all purpose flour, water, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 2: Stretch and Fold the Dough

After mixing, let the dough rest for about 30 minutes. Then, perform a series of stretch and folds:
1. Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
2. Gently lift one side of the dough and fold it over itself.
3. Repeat on all four sides of the dough.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Once you’ve completed stretching and folding, shape your dough into a ball. Place it seam-side down in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rest

Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for about 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Make Pizza

Preheat your oven as per your preferred method. Roll out your rested dough on a lightly floured surface, then transfer it onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Add your favorite toppings and bake until golden brown!

How to Serve Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough

Serving your small batch sourdough pizza dough is a fun and creative experience. You can customize each pizza to suit your taste or share with friends and family. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Classic Margherita

• Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil make this traditional pizza a favorite. Drizzle with olive oil before baking for extra flavor.

Veggie Delight

• Load up your pizza with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and spinach. Add some feta cheese for a tangy twist.

BBQ Chicken

• Top your dough with shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, red onions, and cilantro for a sweet and savory combination that everyone will love.

Mediterranean Feast

• Use olives, artichokes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to create a Mediterranean-inspired pizza. Drizzle with olive oil for added richness.

Pesto Perfection

• Spread basil pesto over the crust and top with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella for a fresh and vibrant flavor.

Spicy Pepperoni Alternative

• Try turkey pepperoni or spicy salami for a healthier take on a classic favorite. Pair it with mozzarella cheese for gooey goodness.

How to Perfect Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough

Perfecting your small batch sourdough pizza dough can elevate your homemade pizzas significantly. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before using it in the dough for the best rise.

• Don’t Skip the Rest Period: Allowing the dough to rest helps develop gluten, resulting in a chewier crust.

• Preheat Your Oven: A hot oven is essential for achieving that perfect crust. Preheat it at the highest setting for at least 30 minutes.

• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Mixing different cheeses or adding fruits like figs can enhance flavors.

• Keep It Thin: For a crispy base, stretch the dough thinly while shaping it before adding toppings.

Best Side Dishes for Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough

Pairing side dishes with your small batch sourdough pizza can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter pairs perfectly with pizza and is always a crowd-pleaser.

2. Caesar Salad: A crisp salad topped with romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing complements the richness of pizza nicely.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add a healthy side dish that’s easy to prepare.

4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction provide a refreshing contrast to cheesy pizzas.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cream cheese or spinach make delightful bite-sized appetizers alongside your pizzas.

6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and cured meats (or plant-based alternatives) creates an inviting starter before the main meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making small batch sourdough pizza dough can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Bold Starter: Using inactive or old sourdough starter discard can lead to poor fermentation. Ensure your starter is bubbly and active before using it.
• Bold Incorrect Measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin the dough’s texture. Use a kitchen scale for precision when measuring flour and water.
• Bold Skipping Resting Time: If you skip the resting period, your dough won’t develop the right flavor and texture. Always let it rest as directed in the recipe.
• Bold Overworking Dough: Kneading or working the dough too much can make it tough. Handle it gently to maintain its airy structure.
• Bold Ignoring Temperature: Making dough in a cold environment can slow down fermentation. Ensure your kitchen is warm enough for proper rising.

Refrigerator Storage

• To store your small batch sourdough pizza dough in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container.
• The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Make sure to lightly grease the container to prevent sticking.

Freezing Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough

• For freezing, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label your container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Bake directly from frozen for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Microwave individual portions on medium power for 30-45 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overcook.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the dough in it, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough?

Small batch sourdough pizza dough utilizes excess sourdough starter discard, creating a flavorful and chewy crust that’s perfect for homemade pizzas.

How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?

Your sourdough starter is active if it doubles in size within 4-6 hours after feeding and has plenty of bubbles on the surface.

Can I customize my Small Batch Sourdough Pizza Dough?

Yes! You can add herbs, spices, or even grated cheese into the dough for added flavor and uniqueness.

How long does it take to rise?

The rising time may vary based on temperature but typically takes about 1-2 hours at room temperature until doubled in size.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Substituting whole wheat flour will give your pizza crust a nuttier flavor while maintaining its chewy texture.

Final Thoughts

This small batch sourdough pizza dough recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. With just a few ingredients, you can create a deliciously airy and chewy pizza crust that everyone will love. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or herbs to make each pizza unique!