This Lentil and Seed Bread is a hearty, gluten-free bread made with lentils, seeds, and psyllium husk. Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, it’s perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack. The bread is dense, savory, and full of flavor, making it a great alternative to traditional wheat bread. It pairs well with spreads, cheese, or even on its own.
Ingredients:
- 200g (1 cup) lentils, soaked and cooked
- ½ cup water
- 40g (3 tbsp) sesame seeds
- 20g (2 tbsp) flax seeds
- 30g (¼ cup) psyllium husk
- 10g (2 tsp) baking powder
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Dried garlic (for sprinkling)
Directions:
- Prepare the lentils:
- Soak 200g lentils overnight (or at least 4 hours), then cook them in salted water until soft. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Mix the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils with ½ cup of water and mash slightly with a fork or potato masher to create a chunky mixture.
- Add 40g sesame seeds, 20g flax seeds, 30g psyllium husk, 10g baking powder, sweet paprika, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined and a thick dough forms.
- Form the bread:
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with oil. Transfer the dough into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the top with dried garlic for extra flavor.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Bake the bread for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and serve:
- Let the bread cool completely in the pan before slicing. Enjoy it as a savory base for sandwiches, toasts, or alongside soups.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with hummus, avocado spread, or your favorite nut butter.
- Pair with soups or salads for a wholesome meal.
- Use as a base for open-faced sandwiches with toppings like smoked salmon, cheese, or roasted vegetables.
- Toast slices and top with scrambled eggs for breakfast.
- Spread with butter or cream cheese for a simple, tasty snack.
Cooking Tips:
- For a lighter texture, you can pulse the lentils in a food processor before mixing them into the dough.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
- You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the dough for extra flavor.
- For a seedier texture, add extra seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds to the dough.
- Store the bread wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out too quickly.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in fiber: Lentils, flax seeds, and psyllium husk contribute to a fiber-rich bread that supports digestive health.
- Protein-packed: Lentils and seeds provide plant-based protein, making this bread ideal for vegetarians.
- Rich in healthy fats: The flax and sesame seeds contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
- Gluten-free: A great alternative for those avoiding gluten.
- Low-carb: Compared to traditional bread, this recipe is lower in carbohydrates.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free ingredients.
- Vegan: This bread is plant-based and suitable for vegans.
- High-Fiber: The combination of psyllium husk, lentils, and seeds provides a great source of fiber.
- Low-Carb: Ideal for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
- Nut-Free: This recipe contains no nuts, making it safe for nut allergies.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approximate for 1 slice):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 8g
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Hearty and nutritious: A perfect alternative to traditional bread, packed with fiber and protein.
- Gluten-free and vegan: Suitable for various dietary needs.
- Great for meal prep: Bake once and enjoy throughout the week.
- Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or seeds to your liking.
- Dense and filling: One slice of this bread is sure to keep you satisfied.
Conclusion:
This Lentil and Seed Bread is a nutrient-dense, gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat bread. It’s hearty, flavorful, and full of healthy ingredients like lentils, seeds, and psyllium husk. Whether you enjoy it as a base for sandwiches or on its own, this bread is a wholesome choice for any meal. Try it toasted, with spreads, or as part of a savory meal, and enjoy its rich, earthy flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different types of lentils?
- Yes, you can use green, brown, or black lentils, but red lentils will give the softest texture.
- How do I make sure the bread holds together?
- Make sure to use psyllium husk, which acts as a binder in the bread. Let it cool completely before slicing for the best results.
- Can I freeze the bread?
- Yes, freeze the loaf or individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.
- Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
- Absolutely! You can mix in additional seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.
- How long does this bread stay fresh?
- The bread will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.