Ingredients:

For the Bread:

• Red Lentils – 2 cups (360 g)
  The base of the bread, providing protein and fiber.
• Eggs – 3 large
  Helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness.
• Olive Oil – 50 g (1/4 cup)
  Adds moisture and a subtle flavor.
• Yogurt – 1 glass (200 g)
  Makes the bread soft and adds a slight tang.
• Feta Cheese – 125 g (1/2 cup)
  Adds creaminess and a salty, tangy flavor.
• Baking Powder – 10 g (2 tsp)
  Helps the bread rise.
• Baking Soda – 5 g (1 tsp)
  Works with yogurt to create a light texture.
• Black Cumin Seeds – 1 tbsp
  Adds an aromatic and slightly nutty flavor.
• Salt – 1 tsp
  Enhances the overall flavor.
• Parsley – 1 tbsp (fresh or dried)
  Adds a fresh, herby note.
• Chili Flakes – 1 tsp
  Provides a gentle heat and depth of flavor.

For Decoration:

• Sesame Seeds + Black Cumin Seeds – as needed
  For a decorative and flavorful topping.

Steps to Make:

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils

1. Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Soak the lentils in water for 2-3 hours or until they double in size. Drain well.
3. Blend the soaked lentils in a food processor or blender until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, and yogurt until well combined.
2. Crumble the feta cheese into the mixture and stir gently.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In another bowl, combine the blended lentils, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black cumin seeds, parsley, and chili flakes.
2. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Line a loaf pan or a baking dish with parchment paper or grease it with olive oil.
3. Pour the lentil bread batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. Sprinkle sesame seeds and black cumin seeds generously over the top of the batter for decoration and extra flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts (Per Slice):

• Calories: ~150 kcal
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sodium: 280 mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils?

Red lentils are best for this recipe as they cook and blend easily. Green or brown lentils may require additional soaking and blending time.

2. Can I make this bread dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.

3. Can I freeze the lentil bread?

Absolutely. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven before serving.

Tips for Perfect Lentil Bread:

1. Soak Lentils Properly: Soaking the lentils thoroughly ensures they blend smoothly and contribute to the bread’s texture.
2. Don’t Overmix: Combine the ingredients gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in dense bread.
3. Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano to customize the flavor.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and high-quality olive oil will elevate the overall taste of the bread.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store the bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Warm slices in the toaster or microwave before serving.
2. Freezing: Freeze individual slices for convenience. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag.
3. Reheating: Reheat frozen bread slices in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 5-10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.

Conclusion:

This Savory Lentil Bread with Feta and Herbs is a nutritious, gluten-free, and protein-rich alternative to traditional bread. Packed with wholesome ingredients like red lentils, yogurt, and feta cheese, this bread is as versatile as it is delicious. Enjoy it as a snack, pair it with soups or salads, or serve it as part of a breakfast spread. Easy to make and loaded with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to explore healthy baking options. Give it a go and savor the perfect balance of taste and nutrition!