This Soft and Golden Flatbread recipe is simple, delicious, and versatile. Made with basic ingredients and a gentle fermentation process, these flatbreads are soft, chewy, and lightly golden, perfect for pairing with any meal. Whether served with dips, soups, or used as a base for toppings, this recipe guarantees freshly baked goodness every time.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Fermentation Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes per flatbread
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 500 ml warm water
- 1 packet dry yeast (10 g)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 600–650 g (5–5 1/4 cups) flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Cornmeal, for sprinkling
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Directions:
Prepare the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine 500 ml warm water, 1 packet of dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Stir until the yeast dissolves and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough:
- Gradually add 600–650 g of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture, stirring to form a soft, sticky dough.
- First Fermentation:
- Wet your hands and shape the dough into a ball.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it ferment for 25 minutes.
Fermentation Process:
4. First Folding:
- After 25 minutes, oil your hands slightly and gently fold the dough inwards to release the gas.
- Cover and let it ferment again for 20 minutes.
- Second Folding:
- After 20 minutes, fold the dough again and let it ferment for another 10 minutes.
- Final Fermentation:
- Cover the dough and let it ferment for 1 hour.
Shape the Dough:
7. Divide the Dough:
- Dust your work surface with flour and divide the dough into 4 equal parts.
- Roll each part into a ball and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Flatten the Dough:
- Press each ball to flatten and enlarge, working with flour to prevent sticking.
- Sprinkle cornmeal on the work surface and on top of the dough.
- Drizzle each flattened dough with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Press the dough with your fingertips to enlarge and shape further.
Bake the Flatbread:
9. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to its maximum temperature.
- Bake:
- Place the flattened dough on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5–7 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Repeat with the remaining dough.
Serve:
11. Wrap and Serve:
– Wrap the freshly baked flatbread in a clean cloth to keep it soft.
– Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with hummus, tzatziki, or any dip of your choice.
- Use as a base for pizzas or flatbread sandwiches.
- Pair with soups, stews, or grilled meats for a hearty meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Use a pizza stone or a preheated baking sheet for evenly baked flatbreads.
- Adjust the dough consistency by adding a bit more flour if it’s too sticky.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Olive oil contributes healthy fats and antioxidants.
- Low in sugar, making it a balanced choice for various diets.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be made vegan by substituting honey for sugar if needed.
- Contains gluten (use gluten-free flour alternatives if required).
Nutritional Facts (Per Flatbread):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a hot oven for 2-3 minutes to refresh.
- Freeze baked flatbreads for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
- Soft, versatile bread that pairs with a variety of dishes.
- Perfect for meal prep or serving fresh out of the oven.
- Quick baking time ensures you can enjoy warm, homemade bread in no time.
Conclusion:
This Soft and Golden Flatbread is a versatile and satisfying addition to any meal. Whether used as a side, snack, or main dish base, it’s sure to impress with its fresh flavor and fluffy texture. The simple process and minimal ingredients make it a go-to recipe for bread lovers. Try it today and bring the warmth of homemade bread to your table!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, replace up to half the flour with whole wheat flour for a denser texture. - What can I use instead of cornmeal?
Semolina or flour works well as a substitute. - Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze the dough after shaping into balls. Thaw and bake when needed. - Can I add herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! Mix dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the dough for added flavor. - Why is my flatbread not soft?
Overbaking or insufficient hydration can cause dryness. Keep the dough soft and bake just until golden. - Can I make mini flatbreads?
Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time accordingly. - How do I prevent sticking while shaping?
Use enough flour or cornmeal on the work surface to prevent sticking. - What toppings can I add before baking?
Try sesame seeds, garlic, or grated cheese for extra flavor. - Can I bake these on a grill?
Yes, preheat the grill and cook on medium heat for a few minutes per side. - How do I store leftover flatbread?
Wrap in foil or store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for later use.