This homemade flatbread recipe is a simple yet delicious treat that will elevate any meal. Soft, warm, and buttery, these flatbreads are perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces, pairing with stews, or enjoying with a side of yogurt and honey. The dough is easy to prepare, and the technique used to cook the flatbread ensures a perfectly golden and crispy texture. With just a few ingredients like flour, water, butter, and oil, this recipe makes a versatile bread that’s sure to be a hit during breakfast, tea time, or even as a snack. This flatbread is light, flaky, and full of flavor, perfect for serving with a variety of dishes.
Preparation Time
- Total preparation and cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups of flour (480 grams)
- 1 teaspoon of salt (8 grams)
- 2 glasses of water (400 ml)
- 150 grams of butter
- 1 tea glass of oil (100 ml)
Directions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the water, kneading for about 3-4 minutes until a medium-hard dough forms.
- Cover the dough airtight and allow it to rest for 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax and improve the texture.
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Rest and Knead:
- After the first resting period, transfer the dough to a flat surface and knead it for another 3-4 minutes.
- The dough should become softer and more pliable.
- Cover the dough airtight again and leave it to rest for another 30 minutes.
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Divide and Shape:
- After the second rest, the dough should have reached the desired consistency.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal parts and roll each piece into a ball.
- Do not use flour at this stage to keep the dough soft and pliable.
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Roll and Cut:
- Take the first dough ball and roll it out lengthwise, using some flour to prevent sticking.
- Use a roulette cutter to cut the dough very thinly. The thinner the dough, the better the final result will be.
- Generously apply a mixture of melted butter and oil (150 grams of butter and 100 ml of oil) all over the rolled dough.
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Assemble the Dough:
- Carefully assemble the dough as shown in the instructional video (or gently fold and press the dough into layers if you are not using a video).
- Set aside the shaped dough, repeating this for the remaining balls of dough.
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Rest Again:
- Cover the prepared dough and allow it to rest for 15 minutes to help it relax before cooking.
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Cook:
- After 15 minutes, press the dough lightly and spread it out a little more.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Carefully place the dough into the pan and cook, constantly turning the dough upside down to ensure even browning.
- Turn the dough frequently to avoid any raw spots and ensure it cooks through evenly.
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Serve:
- Once the flatbread is golden and crisp, remove it from the pan and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Serve the bread warm, and enjoy it with your favorite meal or as a snack.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the flatbread hot with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a delicious, light snack.
- Pair it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful addition to your breakfast or afternoon tea.
- Enjoy with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to create a light, satisfying meal.
- Use the flatbread to scoop up dips like hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki for a perfect appetizer.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure the dough is rolled out very thinly to achieve the best texture. Thicker dough will result in less flaky and less crisp flatbread.
- Turn the dough frequently while cooking to ensure an even golden-brown color and to avoid undercooking.
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent the flatbread from sticking and to ensure it cooks evenly.
- You can add a little extra butter on top of the cooked flatbread for an even more indulgent flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Flour: Provides carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary energy source.
- Butter: Adds healthy fats that support overall health, but should be consumed in moderation.
- Oil: Healthy oils like olive oil can provide beneficial fats that support heart health.
- Yogurt (optional): If served with yogurt, it adds protein and probiotics that promote digestive health.
- Herbs: While not directly included in the recipe, herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added for extra flavor and antioxidant benefits.
Dietary Information
- This recipe is vegetarian and non-vegan (due to butter), but can be adapted with plant-based butter and oils for a vegan-friendly version.
- Gluten-free: If needed, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.
Storage
- The flatbread is best served fresh and hot but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- You can freeze the flatbread for up to 1 month. To reheat, place it in the oven or on a skillet for a few minutes to regain its crisp texture.
Conclusion
This homemade flatbread is simple yet flavorful, making it the perfect addition to any meal. With its soft texture, buttery flavor, and versatility, it pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or using it as a base for dips, sandwiches, or wraps, this flatbread recipe is sure to be a go-to in your kitchen. Easy to prepare and delicious to eat, it’s a wonderful recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade, comforting bread.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it before rolling and cooking the flatbread. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
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Can I use whole wheat flour instead of regular flour? Yes, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, although the texture may differ slightly.
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How can I make the flatbread even more flavorful? Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough or sprinkle some garlic powder on top before serving for an extra boost of flavor.
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Can I make these flatbreads with a gluten-free flour blend? Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
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Can I use ghee instead of butter for a more authentic flavor? Yes, using ghee will add a richer, more traditional flavor to the flatbread, especially if you enjoy Indian or Middle Eastern-style bread.