Easy Sourdough Discard Gravy

Name: Easy Sourdough Discard Gravy
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup sourdough starter (discard); 1 1/2 cups chicken, turkey, or beef stock (cool or room temperature); 2 tablespoons butter (or pan drippings); 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Optional: 1/4 teaspoon fresh or dried herbs like thyme or sage; Optional: a few drops of Kitchen Bouquet for color

Turn your leftover sourdough starter into a smooth, savory gravy that tastes better than anything from a jar.

By Enzo81 Kitchen· American· October 15, 2026

enzo81.xyz

Prep

2 minutes

Cook

8 minutes

Total

10 minutes

Serves

If you bake sourdough bread regularly, you likely end up with a jar of discard sitting in your fridge. Instead of tossing it, you can use it to make this incredibly easy gravy. The natural flour and water mixture in the starter creates a thick, velvety texture without any of the lumps that often happen when you try to whisk flour into hot liquid.

This recipe is a wonderful way to reduce food waste while adding a tiny bit of tangy depth to your favorite meals. It comes together in about ten minutes, making it the perfect quick fix for weeknight dinners or a busy holiday kitchen.

Ingredients

1/2 cup sourdough starter (discard)
1 1/2 cups chicken, turkey, or beef stock (cool or room temperature)
2 tablespoons butter (or pan drippings)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon fresh or dried herbs like thyme or sage
Optional: a few drops of Kitchen Bouquet for color

5Instructions

1
In a saucepan, whisk together the cool stock and the sourdough starter until the mixture is completely smooth.
2
Place the pan over medium heat and whisk constantly until the liquid begins to simmer and thicken, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
3
Turn the heat down to low and continue to simmer for another few minutes while stirring to ensure the raw flour taste is cooked out.
4
Remove the pan from the heat, then stir in the butter, salt, pepper, and any extra herbs you enjoy.
5
Continue whisking until the butter is fully melted and the gravy looks glossy and smooth, then serve immediately.

Tips

To prevent lumps, always start with cool or room temperature stock before whisking in your starter. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for up to three months.

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