Pan-Fried Green Onion and Spinach Flatbread

Imagine biting into a warm, crispy flatbread, freshly pan-fried and brimming with the robust flavors of green onions and spinach. This no-oven flatbread encapsulates the joy of simple, hearty cooking, transforming everyday ingredients into a dish that’s both satisfying and impressively versatile. Whether served alongside a soup, as part of a brunch spread, or enjoyed on its own with a dip, this flatbread promises a delightful taste and texture.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the rustic charm it brings to the table. It’s a perfect example of how minimal ingredients, when used thoughtfully, can create a dish that feels gourmet. The combination of the mild bite of green onion and the subtle earthiness of spinach folded into a buttery, golden crust offers an irresistible appeal. Ideal for those seeking a quick yet flavorful meal option, it invites everyone to roll up their sleeves and enjoy the process of making bread from scratch.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 300 milliliters warm water (1 1/2 cups, using a 200ml cup)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (7 grams)
  • 1 egg
  • 550 grams flour (4 1/5 cups, using a 200ml cup)
  • 40 grams green onions, chopped
  • 50 grams spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 100 grams butter

Directions:

  • Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, 1 teaspoon salt, and egg. Mix well. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
  • Prepare the Filling: Mix chopped green onions, spinach, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
  • Divide and Roll: Divide the rested dough into equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin circle.
  • Fill and Shape: Spread the green onion and spinach mixture over half of each dough circle. Fold over to create a semi-circle and press edges to seal.
  • Cook the Flatbread: Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Cook each flatbread for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Add more butter as needed.
  • Serve: Serve warm as is or with your favorite dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 45 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 minutes per flatbread | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including resting) Kcal: 300 per serving | Servings: 6

Ingredients Spotlight

The recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients. Flour, water, and egg form the base of the flatbread, ensuring a tender yet sturdy texture that holds the filling beautifully. The addition of fresh green onions and spinach not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of nutrition and taste. A touch of red pepper flakes introduces a subtle heat that contrasts the freshness of the vegetables, while butter used in frying adds a rich, golden crispness to the bread’s exterior.

Nutritional Benefits

This flatbread is a great source of essential nutrients. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and manganese. Green onions provide a good dose of vitamins B and C, fiber, and antioxidants. The moderate use of butter adds a bit of fat, which not only enhances flavor and texture but also aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Cooking Tips

  • Resting the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest for 30 minutes is crucial as it helps the gluten in the dough relax, making it easier to roll out and resulting in a softer bread.
  • Rolling Thin: The thinner you roll the dough, the crispier your flatbread will be. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
  • Sealing the Edges: Properly pressing the edges to seal the filling inside prevents it from leaking out during cooking and ensures every bite is full of flavor.
  • Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and green onions make a significant difference in the taste and texture of the filling, so try to use the freshest produce available.

Serving Suggestions

This flatbread is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm as a standalone snack, or pair it with your favorite dipping sauces like tzatziki, hummus, or a garlic yogurt sauce. It also makes a fantastic side to soups and salads, adding a satisfying and hearty element to lighter meals.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This flatbread can be made ahead and reheated, making it a convenient option for quick meals throughout the week. Store cooked flatbreads in the refrigerator, wrapped in foil or in an airtight container, for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or in the oven for best results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re someone who enjoys the process of cooking or are simply looking for a fun, interactive meal preparation experience, making this flatbread offers both. It’s a recipe that invites creativity, allowing you to alter fillings based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand, making each preparation a new adventure in flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make the flatbread dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough up to a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and filling.

Q: What are some alternative fillings I can use?
A: This recipe is very flexible. Try other fillings like sautéed mushrooms and cheese, diced tomatoes and basil, or even minced meat with spices for a heartier version.

Q: Can I freeze these flatbreads?
A: Yes, cooked flatbreads freeze well. Cool them completely, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and freeze. Reheat in a skillet or oven until warm and crispy.

Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Substitute the egg with an egg replacer or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use vegan butter or a neutral oil for cooking.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option for this flatbread?
A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for bread baking. Ensure that it includes xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the texture.

Q: What’s the best way to serve these flatbreads?
A: They are fantastic served warm with dipping sauces such as tzatziki, hummus, or a yogurt-based sauce. They also pair well with salads or as part of a larger meal.

Conclusion

Our Pan-Fried Green Onion and Spinach Flatbread offers a delightful twist on traditional bread making, ideal for those who seek simplicity and flavor in their cooking. Its versatility in terms of fillings and adaptability to dietary needs makes it a wonderful recipe to have in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced chef, this flatbread allows you to explore a variety of flavors and ingredients in a fun and interactive way. Try it out for your next meal, gathering, or as a tasty snack, and enjoy the homemade comfort that comes with crafting your own bread from scratch. This easy-to-follow recipe promises to be a favorite, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any table.