Baked Flatbread with Garlic

Baked Flatbread with Garlic Recipe - Flavorful Vegetarian Dish

Preparation time: 3 hours | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 12 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Baked Flatbread with Garlic is a delightful recipe that brings the aromatic flavors of garlic and the comforting texture of homemade bread together. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the art of baking and enjoy experimenting with flavors. The combination of simple ingredients and the infusion of garlic oil make this flatbread a versatile accompaniment to a wide range of dishes, from soups and salads to curries and grilled meats.

History

The tradition of baking flatbread dates back thousands of years and spans many cultures. From the ancient Egyptians to the Romans, flatbread has been a staple food item, appreciated for its simplicity and versatility. The addition of garlic to flatbread likely evolved for both its flavor and health benefits, as garlic has been used for centuries in various cuisines around the world for its medicinal properties and its ability to enhance the taste of food.

Ingredients

4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cream of tartar
0.25 tsp sea salt
0.5 cup water
1 tbsp egg replacer
1 cup soymilk or low-fat milk
2 tbsp canola oil
0.25 cup olive oil or melted ghee
2 garlic cloves, minced

How to prepare

1. Combine flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
2. Set aside.
3. Whisk water and egg replacer.
4. Mix egg replacer, soy milk, and canola oil in a large bowl.
5. Add flour mixture to soymilk mixture and stir until dough forms a ball.
6. Knead briefly, place in a greased bowl, and cover with a damp towel.
7. Let dough rest in a warm, draft-free area for 2.5 to 3 hours.
8. Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).
9. Lightly oil baking sheets.
10. Sauté garlic in olive oil for 2 minutes.
11. Set aside.
12. Lightly coat hands with vegetable oil and knead dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth, about 3 minutes.
13. Divide dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
14. Flatten each ball with hands, roll into an oval about 0.38" thick, and stretch ends to form a teardrop shape (wide at the base and tapering to a point on top).
15. Place on baking sheets and brush with garlic oil.
16. Bake on the middle rack for 6 to 8 minutes.

Variations

For a whole grain version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or chili flakes, to add a unique twist to the flatbread.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect baked flatbread with garlic, ensure your oven is properly preheated before baking. This helps in getting a nice crust on the flatbread. Additionally, when kneading the dough, aim for a smooth and elastic texture, which will result in a softer bread. Brushing the flatbread with garlic oil not only before but also immediately after baking will enhance the garlic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this baked flatbread warm as an appetizer with a dip, such as hummus or tzatziki, or use it as a base for personal pizzas. It also pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, and salads, adding a delightful texture and flavor to your meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the kneading of the dough, which develops the gluten and gives the flatbread its structure. Additionally, sautéing the garlic before brushing it onto the flatbread enhances its flavor and aroma.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegan version, substitute the low-fat milk with a plant-based milk such as almond or soy milk. If you're avoiding gluten, try using a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for this flatbread can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the baked flatbread into strips and serve in a basket lined with a linen napkin for a rustic presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of coarse sea salt for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

This garlic flatbread pairs beautifully with Mediterranean dishes, such as grilled vegetables, kebabs, or a refreshing Greek salad. It also complements Indian curries and dals, adding a soft texture to soak up the flavorful sauces.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover flatbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat until warm and slightly crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this baked flatbread with garlic contains approximately 250 calories. The calories are derived from a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a wholesome addition to any meal.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this baked flatbread contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the all-purpose flour, which provides the body with energy.

Fats

This recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being canola oil and ghee. These fats contribute to the flatbread's moist texture and rich flavor.

Proteins

Each serving of baked flatbread offers around 6 grams of protein, primarily from the milk and the small amount contributed by the all-purpose flour. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

The milk in this recipe provides calcium and vitamin D, while the garlic offers allicin, manganese, vitamin C, and selenium. These vitamins and minerals support bone health, immune function, and antioxidant protection.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens such as gluten (from wheat flour) and dairy (from milk). Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, this baked flatbread with garlic is a nutritious option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a flavorful and hearty choice that complements a variety of dishes.

Summary

Baked Flatbread with Garlic is a versatile and flavorful recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's a wonderful way to add homemade bread to your meals. Whether served as a side, used as a base for toppings, or enjoyed on its own, this flatbread is sure to delight your taste buds.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Baked Flatbread with Garlic. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Italy. I had always loved to spend time in the kitchen with my mother, watching as she skillfully prepared delicious meals for our family. One day, while rummaging through an old cookbook that had been passed down through generations, I came across a worn and tattered page that caught my eye.

On that page was the recipe for Baked Flatbread with Garlic. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of the instructions intrigued me, and I knew that I had to give it a try. I asked my mother about the recipe, and she smiled and told me that it was a family secret that had been passed down from her own mother.

With my mother's guidance, I set out to make the flatbread. I mixed together flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of salt to form a smooth dough. I let it rise for an hour, then rolled it out into a thin circle on a floured surface. I sprinkled minced garlic and olive oil over the top, then popped it into the oven to bake.

The smell that wafted through the kitchen as the flatbread baked was heavenly. The garlic sizzling in the oven filled the air with its savory aroma, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When the flatbread emerged from the oven, golden and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, I knew that I had discovered something special.

I served the flatbread to my family that evening, and it was a hit. The garlic-infused bread was the perfect accompaniment to our meal, and everyone raved about how delicious it was. From that day on, Baked Flatbread with Garlic became a staple in our household, a recipe that I would make time and time again.

As the years passed, I continued to perfect the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my tastes. I added a sprinkle of fresh herbs from my garden, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor. Each time I made the flatbread, I felt a connection to my ancestors, to the women who had come before me and passed down this recipe through the generations.

I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who were equally enchanted by its simplicity and deliciousness. They would often ask me for the recipe, and I would gladly hand it over, knowing that it would bring them as much joy as it had brought me.

Over the years, I have made Baked Flatbread with Garlic countless times, for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. It has become a beloved tradition in our household, a dish that never fails to bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of cooking that has been passed down to me. I am grateful for the memories of my mother teaching me how to make this flatbread, and for the joy that it has brought to my family and friends over the years.

And so, as I continue to cook and bake and create in my kitchen, I carry with me the legacy of Baked Flatbread with Garlic, a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart.