These Sourdough Discard Strawberry Fritters are a sweet treat full of juicy strawberries and crispy goodness. They’re perfect for using up that sourdough starter you have lying around!
Honestly, who can resist a warm fritter? I love making these with my kids—they can’t wait to help dip them in sugar! Just make sure to have some extra strawberries on hand for snacking! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough starter discard: This is the star of the show! It adds great flavor, and you don’t have to waste anything. If you don’t have a discard, you can use buttermilk as a substitute, but the flavor will change a bit.
All-purpose flour: I stick with all-purpose flour for the best texture, but you could try whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. Just be aware that it may change the final taste slightly.
Fresh strawberries: While fresh strawberries are perfect for this recipe, you can substitute with raspberries or blueberries if they are more accessible. Frozen fruit can work too, just make sure to thaw and drain them well.
Sugar: I use granulated sugar, but brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor. You could also use coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile, but keep an eye on the measurements.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Fritters?
Getting that crispy exterior is crucial to fritters! Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough. Use a thermometer to check that it’s around 350°F (175°C) before frying.
- Drop spoonfuls of batter into the oil without overcrowding the pan. This helps them cook evenly and stay crispy.
- Fry until golden brown—don’t rush this process! Around 2-3 minutes per side should do.
- Let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This will keep them from getting soggy.
By following these tips, your strawberry fritters will be deliciously crispy on the outside and soft on the inside! Enjoy the process, and happy frying!
Sourdough Discard Strawberry Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped into small pieces
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar or glaze for topping
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time to make these delicious fritters is about 30 minutes. This includes 15 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for frying and glazing. So, in no time, you can whip up these tasty treats and enjoy them warm!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir well to mix everything together until there are no lumps.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined and smooth.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir them together just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the fritters tough.
4. Fold in Strawberries:
Carefully fold in the chopped strawberries to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that crispy texture.
6. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry a few at a time, but be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature.
7. Cook Until Golden Brown:
Fry each fritter for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to flip them over gently.
8. Drain Excess Oil:
Once fried, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
9. Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
If you’re opting for a glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
10. Glaze and Serve:
Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters and, if desired, sprinkle additional powdered sugar on top for added sweetness. Serve them warm and enjoy!
This recipe creates delicious fritters that are both sweet and slightly tangy, thanks to the sourdough discard. They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you need a little pick-me-up!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Strawberries?
Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples or bananas. Just keep in mind that different fruits will bring their unique flavors and textures.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a stir before frying since it might thicken a bit while sitting.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make these fritters dairy-free, simply substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond, coconut, or oat milk. The recipe will still turn out delicious!
