Flatbread is a type of bread that is flat and typically unleavened. It can be made from a variety of different grains, including wheat, rye, barley, and buckwheat. Flatbreads are often used as an alternative to traditional leavened breads.
What is Flatbread?
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Flatbreads are exactly as their name suggests; a type of bread that is flat. You can eat flatbreads with a wide array of toppings or fillings and they make great dippers for sauces and dressings. Flatbreads are a great snack for any time of the day.
They are a great way to spruce up a saucy dish, but also make fantastic bases for meals of their own. These tasty savory treats are super easy to make and even easier to eat. You can even add your own twist to make them your own.
Flatbreads are used in several different cultures and therefore form integral parts of different nationalities’ cuisines. They are rich in history and you’ll probably find a variation of them in countries all over the world.
The History of Flatbread
The origin of flatbread is widely debated among experts. Most foodies think that flatbread originated in ancient Egypt. However, there is significant evidence suggesting that flatbreads were produced in Mesopotamia.
Flatbread is also considered to be one of the world’s first processed foods. Much historical evidence points to flatbreads being produced on an industrial scale in these ancient civilizations. Recent carbon dating research found charred flatbread crumbs in Jordan and dated them back to 12,400 BC.
Ingredients in Flatbread
One of the best things about flatbread is that you can make them with the simple ingredients you find in your pantry! Traditional flatbreads are made with ingredients including flour; water, milk, yogurt; and salt.
Here’s a more exact flatbread recipe for you to follow anytime you get that flatbread craving.
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour (make sure you keep ¼ cup for dusting your surface and rolling pin when you roll them out)
- ½ a teaspoon of table salt
- 50 grams of unsalted butter
- ¾ cup of milk
Flatbread Nutritional Information
Flatbreads are actually one of the healthiest types of bread out there. They don’t require yeast, and you can easily make them using more healthy alternate flour types. Flatbreads are also traditionally eaten with fresh, healthy ingredients such as fresh tomatoes or pulse-based dips.
Because they are made with so few ingredients (sometimes just water and flour), flatbreads do not contain a lot of calories, so they’re ideal if you're craving carbs but also trying out a new diet.
How to Make Flatbread
Making flatbread could not be easier. They don’t contain yeast so you don't have to worry about waiting for the dough to rise. Simply mix up your chosen ingredients, divide the dough into smaller, bite-sized balls, roll them out, pop them in the oven or hot pan, and eat.
When you start on your flatbread, melt the butter in the milk in a saucepan on the stove. In a separate mixing bowl add the dry ingredients and mix these with the melted butter and milk. Knead the dough for two minutes.
Once you’ve finished the dough, you can either leave it to rest for half an hour or get straight into splitting the dough if you’re hungry. Dust a flat surface and rolling pin with some excess all-purpose flour. Split the dough into smaller balls and roll these out until they are 2 - 3 millimeters thick.
Preheat the oven or frying pan and lightly oil the pan or baking tray (depending on whether you’re using a stovetop or an oven). Once the oil is hot cook the flatbreads until they are slightly golden with beautiful brown spots on them.
Flatbread Recipes
So now you have your beautiful flatbreads, how are you going to use them? If you’re someone who enjoys super-thin bread that is not too airy or doughy, you should use them as a dip. Try to channel the likes of Lebanese and Greek cuisines when you go for these recipes.
Use thin flatbreads as a starter and dip them in delicious dips like homemade houmous, baba ganoush, tzatziki, or even dahl. If you have a slightly thicker flatbread, you can’t go wrong with treating it almost like a pizza base.
Flatbreads also make great starting points for the likes of herby bread. They also make a great side to any dish such as garlic flatbread topped with some wild rocket. If you’ve used yogurt in your flatbread dough, eat it with something spicy to really complement the flavor.
Flatbread FAQ's
Flatbreads are usually made by combining flour and water to form a dough, which is then flattened into a thin sheet. This dough can be cooked on a griddle or in a skillet over high heat. Some flatbread recipes may also include milk, fat, yogurt, or other ingredients for flavor and texture.
Some common flatbreads include chapati, roti, naan, pita, and flatbread.
Flatbreads can be eaten plain or used as a wrapper for other foods. They are often served with dips or spreads, such as hummus or chutney. Flatbreads can also be used to make sandwiches or pizzas.
Flatbreads are typically low in fat and calories. They are also a good source of carbohydrates and fiber. Additionally, flatbreads made with whole grain flour can provide some essential vitamins and minerals.
When making flatbreads, it is important to use a high-quality flour. If the dough is too dry, it will be difficult to work with. It is also important to preheat the griddle or skillet before cooking the flatbreads.
Flatbreads can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer-term storage.
There are many dishes that use flatbread as an ingredient, such as wraps, sandwiches, pizzas, and even desserts.
Flatbreads have been made for thousands of years and are believed to be one of the oldest types of bread. They were likely first made in the Middle East or Asia. Today, flatbreads are enjoyed all over the world.
There are many variations of flatbread, depending on the region where it is made. Some common variations include adding herbs or spices to the dough, using different types of flour, or topping the flatbread with seeds or nuts.
The main difference between flatbread and regular bread is that flatbreads are flat and unleavened, while regular breads are typically leavened with yeast. Flatbreads can be made with a variety of different grains, while regular bread is usually made with wheat flour.
Yes, flatbread can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour. There are also many recipes that call for alternative flours, such as almond flour or chickpea flour.
Flatbread can be healthy depending on the ingredients used. Flatbreads made with whole grain flour or alternative flours can provide some essential nutrients. flatbreads that are high in fat or calories should be enjoyed in moderation.
Common toppings for flatbread include cheese, herbs, spices, vegetables, and meats. Flatbreads can also be served plain or with dips such as hummus or chutney.
Yes, flatbread can be made vegan by using vegan ingredients such as plant-based milk, oil, and flour. There are also many recipes that call for alternative flours, such as almond flour or chickpea flour.
The best way to reheat flatbread is to place it in a skillet over medium heat. Alternatively, flatbread can be placed in a toaster or oven on a low setting.
Yes, flatbread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Flatbreads can be thawed at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Some recipes that use flatbread include wraps, sandwiches, pizzas, and even desserts. There are many ways to incorporate flatbread into your favorite dishes.
If you cannot find flatbread, you can use tortillas, chapatis, or pita bread as substitutes. You may need to adjust the recipe slightly to account for the different shape and size of the flatbreads.
When making flatbreads, it is important to use a high-quality flour. If the dough is too dry, it will be difficult to work with. It is also important to preheat the griddle or skillet before cooking the flatbreads. Additionally, flatbreads can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer-term storage.
