These Sourdough Discard Strawberry Fritters are fluffy, fruity bites filled with sweet strawberries. They make a tasty snack, and the sourdough adds a fun twist!
Honestly, who can resist warm fritters? I love how easy they are to whip up with leftover sourdough! Grab your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy every bite without any guilt! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: This adds flavor and texture to the fritters. If you don’t have any discard, you can use all-purpose flour and a bit of yogurt for a similar tangy kick.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1.
Fresh Strawberries: The star of this recipe! Substitute with blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped apples for a different fruity twist. Frozen berries can work too, just be mindful they may add moisture.
Milk: Regular or non-dairy milk will do. Almond milk or oat milk make great alternatives if you’re aiming for a dairy-free version.
Vegetable Oil: Use any neutral oil for frying. Canola or peanut oil are my favorites for their high smoke points.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Fry for Fritters?
Frying can be tricky, but following a few simple steps can lead you to perfectly crispy fritters every time!
- Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy to avoid greasy fritters.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter carefully into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan! This keeps the temperature steady.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. If they brown too quickly, reduce the heat!
- Use a slotted spoon to lift them out and drain on paper towels. This helps keep them crispy.
And remember, frying is a bit of an art! Don’t rush it, and you’ll get great results each time!
Sourdough Discard Strawberry Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk (more if needed)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Dusting and Glazing:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Optional glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus around 15-20 minutes for frying. Total time will be approximately 35-40 minutes from start to finish, giving you delightful, warm fritters to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth batter!
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the egg and then mix in the milk and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine all the wet ingredients.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until you have a thick batter. If the batter seems too stiff, add a bit more milk until it reaches a spoonable consistency.
4. Fold in the Strawberries:
Carefully fold in the chopped strawberries, being gentle to avoid smashing them too much.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or a pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to fully submerge the fritters without overcrowding the pan.
6. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry a few at a time, making sure not to crowd the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through.
7. Drain and Dust:
Carefully remove the fritters using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels to soak up any excess oil. While they’re still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar.
8. Optional Glaze:
If you want to add a sweet glaze, mix the powdered sugar with milk or lemon juice until it is smooth and pourable. Drizzle over the warm fritters just before serving.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These fritters are best enjoyed warm, so gather your family and dig in! Enjoy the crispy, fluffy, and strawberry-filled goodness!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can! Whole wheat flour will provide a nuttier flavor and denser texture. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly as whole wheat absorbs more moisture, so start with the original amount and add more if needed.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again.
Can I Freeze These Fritters?
Absolutely! Allow the fritters to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
If strawberries aren’t your thing, feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries, diced peaches, or raspberries. Just be aware that different fruits have varying moisture content, which may slightly alter the final texture of the batter.