These Spiced Flatbreads with Garlic and Parsley are a delightful twist on traditional flatbreads, packed with the aromatic flavors of fresh parsley, garlic, and a hint of heat from ground red pepper. Perfect as a side dish, a base for toppings, or simply enjoyed on their own, these flatbreads are versatile, delicious, and easy to make.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 320 g (11.5 oz) All-Purpose or Bread Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 150 ml (5 fl oz) Boiling Water
- 1 Egg
- 1 tsp Ground Red Pepper
- 30 g (1 oz) Fresh Parsley – Finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for the dough)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for brushing the flatbreads)
For the Garlic Mixture:
- 1 tbsp Flour
- 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- Black Pepper – To taste
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 flatbreads
- Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per flatbread
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. This ensures that the baking powder and salt are well mixed into the flour, which is crucial for an even rise and flavor.
Next, pour the boiling water into the flour mixture. The boiling water helps to partially cook the flour, which will give the flatbreads their distinctive soft texture. Immediately add the egg to the mixture and start mixing with a spoon. The heat from the water will also begin to cook the egg slightly, binding the ingredients together.
Once the dough starts to come together, add the ground red pepper and chopped parsley. These ingredients will infuse the dough with flavor and color, making the flatbreads not only taste delicious but also visually appealing. Continue mixing until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Now, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the dough. This addition will help to soften the dough and make it more pliable, as well as add richness to the final product. Knead the dough with your hands until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add a bit more flour until it reaches the right consistency.
2. Shape and Rest the Dough
Once the dough is smooth, shape it into a long roll on a clean surface. Divide the roll into 8 equal pieces. Each piece should be about the size of a small tangerine.
Shape each piece into a ball by gently rolling it between your palms. This helps to evenly distribute the dough’s tension, leading to a better rise. Place the dough balls in a greased baking dish, ensuring they have a light coating of olive oil on the surface to prevent drying out. Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and let the dough rest for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out later.
3. Prepare the Garlic Mixture
While the dough is resting, prepare the flavorful garlic mixture that will be brushed onto the flatbreads. In a small container, mix together 1 tablespoon of flour, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a dash of black pepper. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and stir until the mixture forms a smooth paste. This garlic mixture will give the flatbreads a delicious, aromatic crust as they cook.
4. Roll and Shape the Flatbreads
After the dough has rested, grease your working surface with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Take one dough ball and roll it out into a circle with a diameter of about 15 cm (6 inches). The dough should be thin, but not too delicate.
Brush the surface of the rolled dough with the garlic mixture, making sure to cover it evenly. For a fun twist, cut the dough circle in half and roll each half into a cone shape. Press the edges together to seal the cone, then flatten it slightly with your hand.
Repeat this process with the remaining dough balls. Place the prepared dough cones back into the baking dish, cover, and let them rest for another 15 minutes. This second resting period will ensure that the flatbreads puff up nicely when cooked.
5. Cook the Flatbreads
After the second rest, take each cone-shaped dough and roll it out again, this time to a diameter of about 18 cm (7 inches). The dough should now be slightly thicker than before, with visible layers from the previous rolling.
Heat a frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with a little oil. Once the pan is hot, place a rolled flatbread onto the surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until bubbles start to form and the bottom is golden brown. Brush the top side with a little more oil, then flip the flatbread and cook the other side for another 2 minutes until it is also golden and fully cooked.
6. Serve
Repeat the cooking process with the remaining flatbreads. Serve them warm for the best texture and flavor. These Spiced Flatbreads with Garlic and Parsley are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways.
Serving Suggestions
- As an Appetizer: Serve with dips like hummus, tzatziki, or a spiced yogurt dip.
- As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled meats, stews, or curries for a hearty meal.
- As a Snack: Enjoy them on their own or with a simple drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Tips for Perfect Flatbreads
- Rolling Technique: When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure that the flatbreads cook uniformly.
- Cooking Temperature: Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the flatbreads while ensuring they cook through.
- Flavor Variations: Customize the flavor by adding different herbs or spices to the dough, such as cumin, coriander, or rosemary.
These Spiced Flatbreads with Garlic and Parsley offer a flavorful and aromatic experience that’s perfect for any meal. Their soft texture, combined with the spicy kick and the savory garlic-herb coating, makes them a must-try for bread lovers.