This savory lentil bread is a fantastic option for those looking to add more plant-based proteins to their diet. Made from blended lentils, eggs, and yogurt, it has a moist and fluffy texture that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even as a quick snack. The addition of Parmesan cheese, parsley, and a hint of dried garlic gives it a rich, savory flavor. It’s an easy recipe that results in a delicious and nutritious bread.
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Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 1 hour soaking time for lentils)
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Ingredients
- Lentils: 180 g (1 cup)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Yogurt: 100 g (1/2 cup)
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Dried garlic: 1/2 teaspoon
- Parmesan cheese: 30 g (1/4 cup, grated)
- Parsley: 1 tablespoon (finely chopped)
- Baking powder: 10 g (2 teaspoons)
- Olive oil: 20 ml (1 1/2 tablespoons)
- Sesame seeds: 1 tablespoon (for sprinkling)
- Vegetable oil: for greasing the pan
Directions
- Soak the Lentils: Place 180 g of lentils in a bowl, fill with water, and let them soak for at least 1 hour. After soaking, rinse and drain the lentils thoroughly.
- Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the soaked lentils, 2 eggs, and 100 g of yogurt. Blend the mixture with an immersion blender until smooth.
- Add Seasonings: Add a bit of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of dried garlic, 30 g of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. Mix well to combine.
- Incorporate Baking Powder and Olive Oil: Add 10 g of baking powder and 20 ml of olive oil to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a baking pan with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Pour the Batter: Pour the lentil batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds on top for a crunchy finish.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the bread for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a savory breakfast with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad.
- Use as a base for sandwiches or toast, topped with avocado, hummus, or cheese.
- Serve as a side dish with soups, stews, or curries.
Cooking Tips
- Check the Consistency: If the batter seems too thick, add a little more yogurt or water to reach a smooth consistency.
- Soaking the Lentils: Soaking the lentils not only softens them but also makes them easier to blend and digest.
- Cheese Variations: You can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like cheddar or pecorino for different flavors.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: Lentils and eggs provide a good source of plant-based and animal proteins.
- Rich in Fiber: Lentils are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion.
- Low in Carbs: This recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is perfect for vegetarians who include dairy in their diet.
- Gluten-Free: Made with lentils instead of flour, this bread is naturally gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftover bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat in the oven or toaster.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this bread is both nutritious and tasty.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep work make this recipe easy to prepare.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a snack, side, or part of a main meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and store in the fridge or freezer for a quick, healthy option anytime.
Conclusion
This savory lentil bread is a wonderful addition to your recipe collection, especially if you’re looking for something healthy, easy, and satisfying. The blend of lentils, yogurt, and cheese creates a unique flavor profile that is both rich and savory. With its high protein content and delightful texture, it’s perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheated from the freezer, this bread is sure to become a household favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown lentils?
Yes, red lentils can be used, but they tend to cook faster and may create a slightly different texture. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can substitute the eggs with a flax or chia egg and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative. - What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
You can use any hard cheese like cheddar, gouda, or a dairy-free cheese alternative. - Can I add other vegetables to the batter?
Yes, finely chopped spinach, grated zucchini, or bell peppers would be great additions. - How do I keep the bread from being too dense?
Make sure to blend the lentil mixture well and avoid overmixing after adding the baking powder. - Can I bake this in muffin tins?
Yes, this batter works well for making savory muffins. Adjust the baking time to 20-25 minutes. - Can I use other types of oil?
Yes, you can use any vegetable oil, coconut oil, or melted butter instead of olive oil. - How can I make the bread spicier?
Add some chili flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the batter. - Can I skip the sesame seeds?
Yes, sesame seeds are optional, but they add a nice crunch and flavor to the bread. - Is it necessary to soak the lentils?
Yes, soaking is essential to soften the lentils for blending and to aid in digestion.