Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 6–8

Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Gravy

• ½ cup (120 g) sourdough discard (unfed starter)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• ½ cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Additions

• ½ cup sautéed mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons turkey or beef drippings
• Fresh parsley
• Crispy bacon pieces
• A splash of white wine
• Extra sourdough discard for a stronger tang

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Add diced onion and cook for 3–5 minutes until softened and lightly golden.

Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture.

Whisk continuously and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

The mixture should become smooth and lightly golden.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Slowly pour in the broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

Continue whisking until the gravy begins to thicken.

Step 4: Add the Sourdough Discard

Reduce heat to low.

Whisk in the sourdough discard until fully incorporated.

Allow the gravy to gently simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently.

The sourdough will add thickness, body, and a subtle tangy flavor.

Step 5: Finish the Gravy

Stir in:

• Milk or cream
• Worcestershire sauce
• Dijon mustard
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Salt
• Black pepper

Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Pour the sourdough gravy into a serving bowl or gravy boat.

Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

This Sourdough Gravy pairs perfectly with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roast turkey
• Roast chicken
• Beef tenderloin
• Meatloaf
• Biscuits
• Stuffing
• Roasted vegetables
• Green bean casserole
• Sourdough bread

Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.
• Add a splash of broth or milk while reheating if the gravy becomes too thick.
• Freezing is possible for up to 2 months, although the texture may slightly change after thawing.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh sourdough discard for the best flavor.
• Whisk constantly when adding broth to create a smooth gravy.
• Do not boil the gravy aggressively after adding sourdough discard, as gentle heat creates the best texture.
• Adjust thickness by adding more broth for a thinner gravy or simmering longer for a thicker consistency.
• Add pan drippings from roasted meat for a deeper, richer flavor.
• Strain the gravy for an ultra-smooth restaurant-style finish.

Flavor Variations

Sourdough Mushroom Gravy

Add:

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• Extra thyme
• A splash of white wine

Perfect over mashed potatoes or steak.

Herbed Sourdough Gravy

Add:

• Fresh sage
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Parsley

Great for holiday dinners.

Turkey Sourdough Gravy

Add:

• Turkey pan drippings
• Extra poultry seasoning

Perfect for Thanksgiving meals.

Vegan Sourdough Gravy

Replace:

• Butter with olive oil or vegan butter
• Milk with plant-based milk
• Chicken broth with vegetable broth

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 450 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes. Active starter works, but discard is ideal because it adds flavor without affecting fermentation.

Does sourdough gravy taste sour?

No. The flavor is a mild tang that balances the richness of the gravy. It should taste savory and slightly complex.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as the thickener and ensure your sourdough discard is gluten-free.

Why is my gravy lumpy?

Lumps usually happen when broth is added too quickly. Slowly whisking the liquid into the roux creates a smoother sauce.

Recipe Summary

Sourdough Gravy is a creative and delicious way to use sourdough discard while creating a rich, creamy sauce full of homemade flavor. With buttery aromatics, savory herbs, and the subtle tang of sourdough, this gravy turns everyday meals into something truly special. Perfect for holidays, comfort food dinners, and reducing sourdough waste, this recipe is a must-try for sourdough lovers.