There’s something truly comforting about homemade bread, and this Lentil Focaccia Bread with Olives is no exception. Packed with protein from lentils and bursting with Mediterranean flavor, it’s perfect for dipping, snacking, or as a side for your favorite meals. This recipe is so straightforward that even novice bakers will find success. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. The combination of olives, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil brings a wonderful aroma to your kitchen as it bakes. Trust me, once you get a whiff of that golden crust, you’ll be eagerly awaiting the first bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious: Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this bread a healthy choice.
- Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and steps, it’s a beginner-friendly recipe.
- Flexible Ingredients: You can easily customize with your favorite herbs or other toppings.
- Gluten-Free: This bread is perfect for anyone avoiding gluten.
- Savory Flavor: The combination of olives and herbs gives it a delicious Mediterranean twist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (190 g) lentils
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) psyllium husk
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) flaxseed
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) dried garlic
- 1 teaspoon (1 g) oregano
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) apple cider vinegar
- 6 large olives, sliced
- 1 teaspoon (3 g) sesame seeds
- Fresh rosemary for garnish
- Vegetable oil for greasing
Ingredient Notes
Lentils are the star of this recipe, providing a hearty texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use canned lentils, but make sure to drain and rinse them well. Psyllium husk helps with the structure of the bread, so it’s worth including; look for it in health food stores or the baking aisle. Flaxseed not only adds healthy fats but also acts as a binding agent, similar to eggs if you’re looking for egg-free options. You can substitute any olives of your choice, and feel free to experiment with different herbs.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- 1 baking pan (approx. 9×9 inches or 23×23 cm)
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Coffee grinder (for ground flaxseed and psyllium)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Soft spatula or spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soak lentils: Place the lentils in a bowl and cover with water. Let them soak for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for the best texture.
- Prep lentils: Drain and rinse the lentils with fresh water.
- Grind flaxseed: Use a coffee grinder to finely grind the flaxseed and psyllium husk until they are powdery.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 390°F (200°C) to preheat while you prepare the batter.
- Prepare the pan: Line your baking pan with damp parchment paper and grease it lightly with vegetable oil.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the soaked lentils, eggs, ground psyllium husk, ground flaxseed, salt, baking powder, dried garlic, oregano, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until well mixed; it should have a thick batter-like consistency.
- Spread in pan: Transfer the batter to your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Rest the batter: Allow the batter to sit for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add toppings: Scatter the sliced olives, sesame seeds, and fresh rosemary over the top. Drizzle with a bit more vegetable oil.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Pro Tips
- Letting the batter rest is vital; this helps improve the texture and allows the flavors to meld.
- Try different toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or mixed seeds for variation.
- If you prefer a more robust flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.
Common Mistakes
- Skipping the soaking step can result in a different texture. Don’t rush it!
- Ensure the batter isn’t too runny; adjust add-ins to get a thick consistency.
- Overbaking can lead to a dry loaf; keep an eye on it during the last few minutes.
Variations
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh chopped herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant touch.
- Cheesy: Mix in some grated parmesan for a savory twist.
- Nutty: Fold in some chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your baked focaccia warm or at room temperature, drizzled with extra olive oil. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad, or you can enjoy it alongside soups and stews. Slice it into squares or wedges for easy sharing.
Storage Instructions
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, simply pop slices in a toaster or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition Estimate
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 6 g
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus soaking time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus soaking time)
- Servings: 8
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Course: Bread
- Calories: 150
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this focaccia?
Yes, it freezes well. Wrap individual pieces tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag.
What type of lentils should I use?
Brown or green lentils work best for this recipe as they hold their shape well.
Is there a vegan option?
You can replace eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit until gel-like).
How can I make this bread more flavorful?
Add garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite spices to the batter for extra flavor.
With this recipe, you’ll have a unique, wholesome bread that’s not only satisfying but also a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy the process of baking, and relish every bite of this savory focaccia!
