This Gluten-Free Lentil Bread is a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional bread, made with lentils, yogurt, and a blend of simple ingredients. It’s perfect for those looking to reduce gluten in their diet while enjoying a moist and flavorful bread that’s easy to prepare. This recipe combines lentils with eggs, yogurt, and aromatic herbs, creating a loaf that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy this bread on its own, as a base for sandwiches, or as a side dish to your favorite meals.
Ingredients
- Red lentils: 180 grams (1 cup)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Yogurt: 100 grams (1/2 cup)
- Salt: A pinch
- Dried garlic: 1/2 teaspoon
- Parmesan cheese: 30 grams (1/4 cup), grated
- Parsley: A handful, chopped
- Baking powder: 10 grams (2 teaspoons)
- Olive oil: 20 ml (1 1/2 tablespoons)
- Sesame seeds: For sprinkling on top
- Vegetable oil: For greasing the baking pan
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lentils
- Soak the Lentils: Place the lentils in a bowl and cover with water. Let them sit for at least 1 hour to soften. This helps to make them easier to blend and improves the texture of the bread.
- Rinse and Drain: After soaking, rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and drain well.
Step 2: Blend the Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the drained lentils, eggs, yogurt, salt, dried garlic, and olive oil. Use an immersion blender to blend the ingredients into a smooth batter. Alternatively, you can use a regular blender or food processor.
- Add Parmesan and Parsley: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Mix until evenly combined.
- Incorporate Baking Powder: Add the baking powder and gently fold it into the batter until just combined. This will help the bread to rise and become fluffy during baking.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan
- Grease the Pan: Lightly grease a loaf pan with vegetable oil to prevent the bread from sticking. You can use a brush or paper towel to spread the oil evenly.
Step 4: Pour and Sprinkle
- Pour the Batter: Pour the prepared lentil batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle with Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the top of the batter. This adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal to the finished bread.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool the Bread: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cooled lentil bread and serve as desired. It’s perfect for sandwiches, as a side, or simply enjoyed on its own.
Tips for the Best Lentil Bread
- Variations: Add your favorite herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for extra flavor. You can also include seeds like sunflower or flax for additional texture.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes well; just slice and wrap in plastic wrap before freezing.
- Serving Suggestions: This bread pairs well with soups, salads, or as a healthy base for open-faced sandwiches.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g
Conclusion
This Gluten-Free Lentil Bread is an easy and nutritious alternative to traditional bread, offering a unique flavor and texture that will surprise and delight. Made with wholesome ingredients and free from gluten, it’s a versatile addition to any meal, providing a healthy source of protein and fiber. Whether you’re new to gluten-free baking or a seasoned pro, this lentil bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful taste and health benefits of this homemade bread!
