Patrick Simon January 26, 2026

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Sourdough Discard Tortillas

Name: Sourdough Discard Tortillas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1/2 cup active sourdough starter discard; 1/4 cup olive oil (or avocado/sunflower oil); 1/3 cup water; 1 2/3 cups flour (all-purpose or whole wheat); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

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When the sun starts to wane and the tantalizing scent of cooking wafts through the air, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of freshly made Sourdough Discard Tortillas. These lovely little flatbreads transform your sourdough starter discard, giving it new life with a delightful texture that’s perfect for wrapping around your favorite fillings. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a casual family dinner, these homemade tortillas fit seamlessly into any occasion, ready to elevate your meals with their unique flavor.

What Makes These Sourdough Discard Tortillas Special

You might wonder why Sourdough Discard Tortillas deserve a special spot in your kitchen. Here are a few reasons that will make you fall in love with them:

They utilize your sourdough starter discard, reducing waste while enhancing flavor.
The texture is incredibly soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping tasty fillings.
Made with simple ingredients, they are quick to whip up and can be tailored to your taste.
They elevate any meal, from burritos to quesadillas, with rich, complex flavors.

Gather These Ingredients

Creating Sourdough Discard Tortillas is not only simple but exciting to do with fresh ingredients that work together perfectly. If you need to make any swaps, I’ve noted some options as well. Here’s what you will need:

1/2 cup active sourdough starter discard
1/4 cup olive oil (feel free to substitute with avocado or sunflower oil if you prefer)
1/3 cup water
1 2/3 cups flour (all-purpose or whole wheat flour works wonderfully)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

These straightforward ingredients blend seamlessly to create a delightful dough that’s both satisfying and versatile.

Step by Step on Making Sourdough Discard Tortillas

Preparation: Begin by combining your sourdough starter discard, olive oil, and water in a mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth; the aroma of the sourdough will begin to emerge, making your kitchen feel welcoming.
Stretch and Fold: Gradually add in the flour and sea salt, mixing with a spatula until it holds together. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 3–5 minutes until it becomes soft and smooth, feeling pleasantly pliable under your hands.
Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll them into balls. Cover them with a kitchen towel to prevent drying out and let them rest for about 15 minutes. The dough will relax, making it easier to roll out.
Cook the Tortillas: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Roll each dough ball into a thin circle, about 6-8 inches in diameter. Cook each tortilla for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown spots appear, and they start to puff up. The wonderful, slightly nutty aroma will fill your space.
Serve or Store: Once cooked, stack the tortillas on a plate and keep them warm under a towel until you’re ready to enjoy.

Prep ~ 20 minutes, Cook ~ 20 minutes, Total ~ 40 minutes, Servings ~ 8, Kcal ~ 150 (estimated).

Prep in Advance

Making these Sourdough Discard Tortillas can be convenient for busy days. You can prepare the dough in advance and simply roll and cook whenever you’re ready to enjoy them. Alternatively, the rolled dough balls can be placed in a container, separated by parchment paper, and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and cooking.

Storing and Reheating

Once you’ve enjoyed your Sourdough Discard Tortillas, you might have some leftovers to savor later. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the tortillas, placing parchment paper between each one, for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, gently reheat in a skillet or microwave to bring back that warm, soft texture, and check for freshness by giving them a sniff — they should smell like the freshly baked bread.

What Pairs Beautifully with Sourdough Discard Tortillas

These versatile tortillas are perfect for a variety of delicious fillings and sides. Here are a few serving ideas:

Stuff them with savory ground turkey, sautéed peppers, and onions for a tasty fajita night.
Fill with grilled chicken and creamy avocado for a fresh and light option.
Turn them into quesadillas with cheese, spinach, and mushrooms.
Serve with homemade salsa and guacamole for a fun snack or appetizer.

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Looking to customize your Sourdough Discard Tortillas? Here are some great ideas to switch things up:

Add herbs like cilantro or oregano directly into the flour for a burst of flavor.
Incorporate spices such as cumin or chili powder for a warm kick.
Try using spelt or gluten-free flour for a different texture.
Add finely chopped vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the dough for extra nutrients.
Experiment by infusing the tortillas with other flavors, like turmeric for color and health benefits.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To ensure you achieve the best results with your Sourdough Discard Tortillas, consider these helpful tips:

Make sure your sourdough starter discard is active for optimal flavor.
Don’t skip the resting step; it truly affects the dough’s elasticity.
Keep your rolling surface and the dough lightly floured to prevent sticking.
Monitor your skillet temperature to avoid burning, aiming for medium-high heat.
Let the tortillas cool slightly before stacking them, helping maintain their soft texture.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use sourdough starter that’s been refrigerated?
Yes, just make sure it’s active and bubbly by feeding it a few hours before using it in this recipe.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your mixing bowl is big enough to handle the increased volume.
How can I make these tortillas gluten-free?
You can substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend, but you may need to adjust the water quantity depending on the blend used.
Is it okay to freeze these tortillas?
Definitely! Make sure they are properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn and will stay good for up to 3 months.
Can I reheat tortillas in the microwave?
Yes, you can, but for the best texture, a skillet or stovetop is preferred to get that nice, warm feel.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Discard Tortillas are a delightful way to reduce waste while enjoying an enticing kitchen project. Their unique flavor and wonderful texture make them a winning addition to any meal. So gather your ingredients and let these tortillas bring a touch of warmth to your dining table; you and your loved ones will be glad you did! Go ahead, let them inspire your next culinary adventure.

Sourdough Discard Tortillas

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful flatbreads made from sourdough starter discard, perfect for wrapping your favorite fillings.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup active sourdough starter discard
1/4 cup olive oil (or avocado/sunflower oil)
1/3 cup water
1 2/3 cups flour (all-purpose or whole wheat)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Combine sourdough starter discard, olive oil, and water in a mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth.
Gradually add flour and sea salt, mixing until it holds together. Knead on a floured surface for 3-5 minutes.
Divide the dough into 8 pieces, roll into balls, and let rest covered for 15 minutes.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Roll each ball into a thin circle and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Stack cooked tortillas on a plate under a towel to keep warm.