Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something healthy, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This red lentil flatbread recipe is your answer. Packed with protein and fiber, this homemade flatbread is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. It's one of those best recipes that’s both impressive and unbelievably simple, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. This easy recipe will quickly become a staple in your healthy meals repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Toppings of your choice (suggestions below)
Instructions:
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Cook the Lentils: In a small saucepan, combine the red lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are completely soft and have absorbed most of the water. Mash the lentils slightly with a fork – you want a slightly chunky texture, not a complete purée. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Sauté Aromatics: While the lentils are cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed onion mixture, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until a slightly sticky dough forms.
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Form the Flatbreads: Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a thin circle (about 6-8 inches in diameter). You can use a rolling pin or even a bottle for this.
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Cook the Flatbreads: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each flatbread for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly golden brown and cooked through.
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Serve & Enjoy: Serve the warm flatbreads immediately with your favorite toppings.
Delicious Topping Suggestions:
- Hummus and chopped vegetables
- Feta cheese and olives
- Roasted vegetables (like bell peppers and zucchini)
- A dollop of plain yogurt and fresh herbs
- Spicy salsa
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the lentils.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your flatbreads. Adding a pinch of garam masala would be delicious!
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it's easier to handle.
- These flatbreads can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or toaster oven before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250 (depending on toppings)
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fiber: 6-8g
This red lentil flatbread recipe is a fantastic example of healthy eating that doesn't compromise on taste. It's a quick dinner idea that’s both delicious and nutritious – the perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and homemade cooking adventures. Enjoy!