This Lentil Bread is a savory and nutritious alternative to traditional bread. Made with red lentils, yogurt, eggs, and halloumi cheese, it’s not only gluten-free but also high in protein and flavor. Perfect as a savory snack or side dish, this lentil bread is both satisfying and healthy, with a delicious cheesy twist!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups red lentils
- 1 cup yogurt
- 4 eggs
- 2 packs of baking powder (20g total)
- 1 tsp salt
- 60 ml olive oil
- 250g halloumi, diced
Directions:
- Prepare the Lentils
Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water.
Soak the lentils in water for about 30 minutes, then drain well. - Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor or blender, combine the soaked lentils, yogurt, eggs, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth and well combined. - Add Olive Oil and Halloumi
Stir in the olive oil and diced halloumi cheese to the lentil mixture. Make sure the halloumi is evenly distributed throughout the batter. - Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. - Bake the Lentil Bread
Pour the lentil mixture into the prepared pan.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. - Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the lentil bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light lunch.
- Enjoy as a savory snack with a spread of hummus or cream cheese.
- Slice and toast with a drizzle of olive oil for a crispy treat.
- Serve alongside soups or stews for added texture.
Cooking Tips:
- If you don’t have a food processor, you can blend the mixture in batches using a regular blender.
- You can substitute halloumi with feta or any cheese of your choice.
- If the batter is too thick, add a splash more yogurt or water to loosen it up.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Protein: Lentils and eggs provide a good source of plant and animal protein.
- Gluten-Free: This bread is a great alternative for those with gluten intolerance.
- Rich in Calcium: Halloumi cheese adds calcium for bone health.
- Packed with Fiber: Red lentils are high in dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free
- High in Protein
- Vegetarian
- Low Carb
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Storage:
Store leftover lentil bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices for longer storage.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This gluten-free lentil bread is a flavorful and wholesome alternative to traditional bread. Packed with protein, cheese, and herbs, it makes for a savory, satisfying snack or side. Plus, it’s simple to make with only a few ingredients!
Conclusion:
Lentil Bread is not only an excellent gluten-free option but also a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. With the combination of lentils and halloumi, it’s a tasty, nutritious bread that you’ll want to make over and over again. Try it today for a delicious and guilt-free bread alternative!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, you can use green or brown lentils, but red lentils have a smoother texture which works well for this recipe. - Can I substitute halloumi cheese?
Yes, you can use feta, mozzarella, or any cheese that melts well. - Is this bread suitable for freezing?
Yes, this bread freezes well. Slice it before freezing for easy individual portions. - Can I add herbs to the bread for extra flavor?
Absolutely! Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano would complement the flavors beautifully. - How can I make this bread more fluffy?
Ensure that your baking powder is fresh and evenly distributed through the batter for the best rise. - Can I use a different oil?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil with coconut oil or vegetable oil. - What can I serve with this bread?
This bread pairs well with salads, soups, hummus, or a side of fresh vegetables. - Can I make this recipe without eggs?
You can try using an egg substitute like flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg). - How long does this bread last?
It will last about 3 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer. - Is this recipe high in calories?
It’s moderately high in calories, but it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling and healthy choice.