If you're looking for a simple yet flavorful bread to accompany your meals, homemade flatbread is the perfect choice. This versatile bread is soft, fluffy, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and some basic steps, you can enjoy warm and delicious flatbread right in your own kitchen. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making homemade flatbread, ensuring that you achieve the perfect texture and taste.
Ingredients:
To make homemade flatbread, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups or 240g of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup or 120 ml of lukewarm water
- 1/2 cup or 120g of plain unsweetened yogurt (at room temperature)
- 2 tsp. or 7 grams of active dry yeast
- 2 tsp. or 8 grams of sugar
- 1/2 tsp. or 2.5 grams of salt
- 3 tbsp. or 45 ml of olive oil
Method:
1. Activate the Yeast:
Begin by taking lukewarm water in a bowl and adding sugar and yeast to it. Stir quickly to dissolve the sugar and allow the yeast to bloom for 10 to 15 minutes. The mixture should turn into a foam. If you don't see any bubbles or foam, it's recommended to use new yeast.
2. Prepare the Dough:
Next, add the flour, salt, plain unsweetened yogurt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix the ingredients together to form a paste. Ensure that the dough is slightly sticky and moist. If needed, add a spoonful or two of water. Finally, add another tablespoon of olive oil and knead the dough well until it comes together and forms a ball.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
Rub some olive oil on the walls of the bowl to prevent the dough from sticking, then cover the bowl with a lid or wrap it with a cloth. Place the bowl in a warm area and let the dough rise for approximately one hour. During this time, the dough will double in volume.
4. Shape the Flatbread:
Once the dough has risen, sprinkle a little dry flour on your work surface and place the expanded dough on it. Carefully fold the dough to form a loaf, and then divide it into four equal parts. It's important not to over-knead the dough at this stage to preserve the air pockets that have formed, resulting in a soft flatbread. Shape each part into a smooth ball, cover them, and let them rest for 10 minutes.
5. Roll and Cook:
Sprinkle some dry flour on your work surface again and press and flatten each dough ball. Use a rolling pin to further flatten the dough into 8-10 inch circles. Meanwhile, heat a pan over medium-high heat for approximately 5 minutes. Place the rolled-out dough on the hot pan. After 20 to 30 seconds, small bubbles will start to appear. Flip the bread and cook for another 30 seconds. Flip it again, and this time it should start to puff. Once it's fully puffed up, flip it over once more and cook for an additional 20 to 30 seconds.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, transfer the flatbread to a plate and cover it with a cloth to keep it soft and warm. Homemade flatbread is best enjoyed fresh and can be served with various additions such as butter, olive oil, chili flakes, or chopped cilantro or parsley.
Making homemade flatbread is a rewarding and delightful experience. By following these simple steps, you can create soft and flavorful flatbread to complement your meals. Experiment with different additions and enjoy the versatility of this delicious bread. Whether you're serving it alongside soups, stews, or using it as a wrap, homemade flatbread is sure to impress your family and friends with its taste and texture. So why not give it a try and elevate your dining experience with this homemade delight?