Sourdough Garlic Knots

Tender, flavorful, and utterly irresistible, Sourdough Garlic Knots are the perfect addition to any meal. These delightful rolls are ideal for serving as an appetizer or side dish at gatherings, family dinners, or casual get-togethers. The combination of fresh garlic and buttery goodness elevates these knots to a standout option that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these delicious knots with confidence.
• Flavor Packed: The rich garlic butter infusion ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. They pair well with soups, salads, and main courses.
• Great for Meal Prep: These knots can be made in advance and reheated for a tasty treat anytime.
• Customizable Garnishes: Top with parsley or grated parmesan for added flair and taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Sourdough Garlic Knots, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and ensure consistent results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry brush
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: This tool makes kneading effortless, ensuring a smooth and elastic dough without much manual effort.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for spreading garlic butter evenly over the dough, giving you that luscious flavor in every bite.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking while baking, making cleanup easier and ensuring your knots come out perfectly golden.

Ingredients

Tender, pull-apart rolls, slathered with garlic butter before baking, then brushed with garlic butter fresh out of the oven.

For the Dough

• 1 ¼ cup whole milk
• 3 tablespoons honey
• ½ cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 ¼ cup all-purpose flour

For the Garlic Butter

• ½ cup salted butter (melted and cooled)
• 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic

Optional Garnishes

• Minced parsley (to garnish)
• Grated parmesan (to garnish)
• Flaky salt (to garnish)

How to Make Sourdough Garlic Knots

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Add the milk, honey, sourdough starter, butter, salt, and flour to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment. Knead on medium for about five minutes or until the dough is smooth and glossy.

Step 2: First Rise

Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a tea towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm area for about eight hours or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare Garlic Butter

Make the garlic butter by melting the butter in a small bowl. Add minced garlic and stir until combined. Set aside.

Step 4: Shape Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle until it’s about ¼ -½ inch thick. Spread a spoonful or two of the garlic butter over the dough using a pastry brush.

Step 5: Cut & Form Knots

Cut into 18 rectangular pieces. Form each piece into a knot by twisting each rectangle and tying it into a knot while tucking the ends underneath. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place for another 1-2 hours until puffy and nearly doubled. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit about halfway through this rise.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.

Step 8: Final Touches

Immediately brush more of the garlic butter over the top of each knot. Follow with freshly chopped parsley if desired. If using parmesan cheese, grate it on top now along with a pinch of flaky sea salt. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sourdough Garlic Knots

Sourdough garlic knots are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, these knots pair well with many meals and flavors.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm alongside marinara sauce for dipping. The rich garlic flavor complements the tangy sauce perfectly.
• Offer them with a selection of cheeses and cured meats for a charcuterie board. The knots add a unique twist to traditional pairings.

With Soups and Salads

• Pair garlic knots with a hearty minestrone or tomato basil soup. The knots make excellent dunkers!
• Enjoy them alongside a fresh garden salad topped with your favorite vinaigrette. The warmth of the knots contrasts nicely with the cold veggies.

At a Party or Gathering

• Present them on a platter at your next gathering as finger food. Guests will love grabbing these tasty bites.
• Use them as part of a build-your-own slider station by pairing them with various fillings like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.

How to Perfect Sourdough Garlic Knots

Perfecting your sourdough garlic knots takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success every time.

• Use active starter: Make sure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active. This ensures proper rising and flavor development.
• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the dough well helps develop gluten, giving the knots their desired texture. Aim for around five minutes of kneading.
• Control rising temperature: Let the dough rise in a warm place, but avoid extreme heat. A consistent temperature helps achieve optimal growth.
• Don’t rush the second rise: Allow the formed knots to rise until puffy, which usually takes 1-2 hours. This step is crucial for soft, airy rolls.
• Brush generously: Apply garlic butter liberally before baking, and don’t forget to brush more right after they come out of the oven for maximum flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add herbs or spices to your garlic butter for extra flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Garlic Knots

Sourdough garlic knots make an excellent addition to many meals. Here are some side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with Caesar dressing pairs well with the richness of garlic knots.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add color and nutrition while balancing the flavors.
3. Minestrone Soup: A hearty vegetable soup filled with beans and pasta goes perfectly with warm garlic knots for dipping.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers provide protein and fiber alongside your delicious rolls.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the savory garlic knots.
6. Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed vegetables mixed with pasta can serve as a vibrant side dish that complements the richness of the bread.
7. Grilled Corn Salad: Sweet grilled corn combined with fresh herbs creates a zesty side that pairs wonderfully.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters add texture and flavor that work harmoniously alongside your sourdough garlic knots.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sourdough Garlic Knots can be simple, but it’s important to avoid common errors that could affect the final result.

• Incorrect Dough Consistency: If your dough is too sticky or too dry, it won’t rise properly. Ensure you measure flour accurately and add it gradually until you achieve a smooth texture.
• Not Allowing Enough Rising Time: Rushing the rising process can lead to dense knots. Be patient and allow the dough to double in size for the best results.
• Overworking the Dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Skipping Garlic Butter Application: Omitting the garlic butter will result in bland knots. Make sure to generously spread it on both before and after baking for maximum flavor.
• Baking at Incorrect Temperature: Baking at too low a temperature can yield undercooked knots. Always preheat your oven and monitor baking times closely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Sourdough Garlic Knots

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Sourdough Garlic Knots

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes for crispy knots.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds, but this may result in softer knots.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sourdough Garlic Knots that may help enhance your experience.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but expect a denser texture. You may need to adjust the liquid accordingly.

How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?

Your sourdough starter should be bubbly and have doubled in size within a few hours after feeding. It should also have a pleasant smell.

Can I add cheese to my Sourdough Garlic Knots?

Absolutely! Adding grated cheese into the dough or as a topping before baking can enrich the flavor and make them even more delicious.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

You can use garlic powder as an alternative. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder mixed into the melted butter as a substitute.

How long do Sourdough Garlic Knots last?

When stored properly, they last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Garlic Knots are not only tasty but also versatile enough for various occasions. These delightful rolls are perfect as appetizers or alongside your favorite meal. Feel free to customize them with herbs or cheeses according to your preferences!