Making homemade flatbreads is a simple and rewarding process. These soft, warm flatbreads are perfect for pairing with any meal or for enjoying as a snack. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create flatbreads that are flavorful, soft, and slightly crispy. This recipe also incorporates a bit of garlic and parsley for extra flavor, making it an excellent addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 11.5 ounces (320 grams) all-purpose flour or bread flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 5 fluid ounces (150 ml) boiling water
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon ground red pepper
- 1 ounce (30 grams) parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for greasing and brushing)
Additional:
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
2. Add Wet Ingredients
- Pour boiling water into the flour mixture. This helps activate the dough and makes it easier to work with.
- Crack one egg into the bowl.
- Add ground red pepper and finely chopped parsley.
- Stir the ingredients together using a spoon until the mixture begins to come together into a dough.
3. Mix and Knead the Dough
- Add olive oil to the dough mixture. Start kneading the dough with your hands. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until the dough becomes smooth and manageable.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s soft and elastic.
4. Rest the Dough
- Grease a baking dish with a small amount of olive oil.
- Roll the dough into a log shape and divide it into 8 parts.
- Roll each piece into a ball and place them in the greased baking dish.
- Brush each dough ball with olive oil, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let them rest for about 30 minutes.
5. Prepare the Garlic Mixture
- In a small container, combine olive oil, flour, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir the ingredients together until well mixed to create the garlic mixture.
6. Shape the Flatbreads
- Once the dough has rested, grease a clean counter or work surface with olive oil.
- Roll each ball of dough into a circle about 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter.
- Brush the top of each flatbread with the garlic mixture.
- Cut the dough into a few pieces, then roll each piece into a cone shape. Press the edges together and flatten it slightly with your hand.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls. Once done, cover the dough and let it rest for another 15 minutes.
7. Roll and Fry the Flatbreads
- After the dough has rested, roll out each flatbread into a circle about 7 inches (18 cm) in diameter.
- Heat a frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil.
- Place the first flatbread into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side. Once it starts to turn golden, brush the top side with more oil, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes until both sides are golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Repeat the process with the remaining flatbreads.
Helpful Tips
- Rolling the Dough: To ensure even cooking, roll out the dough evenly. If some parts are too thick, they won’t cook properly.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning in the garlic mixture according to your taste. You can add more garlic powder for a stronger flavor or use other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cook one flatbread at a time to ensure each one gets enough heat to cook evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor might be slightly different, and you may need to adjust the amount of water.
Can I make the flatbreads ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the flatbreads ahead of time. Simply prepare and cook them, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze them for longer storage and reheat them in a pan when ready to serve.
How do I store the flatbreads?
Store the flatbreads in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer bag or container for up to one month. Reheat in a frying pan or microwave when ready to serve.
Can I add other herbs or spices to the dough?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other herbs like oregano, thyme, or even cumin to add more flavor to the dough. Feel free to adjust the red pepper based on your heat preference.
Can I bake these flatbreads instead of frying them?
While frying gives the flatbreads a crispy texture, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown. Brush the flatbreads with olive oil before baking to keep them soft and flavorful.
Conclusion
These Easy Homemade Flatbreads are perfect for any meal, whether served with a hearty stew, paired with grilled meats, or enjoyed as a snack on their own. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can have fresh, soft, and flavorful flatbreads ready in no time. Plus, the garlic and parsley add a delicious touch that enhances their appeal. Enjoy these warm, aromatic flatbreads with your favorite dips or as a side dish for any occasion.