Transform your bread-making routine with this innovative chickpea-based sandwich bread that’s revolutionizing home baking. This recipe combines the protein-rich goodness of chickpeas with traditional bread-making techniques to create an incredibly soft, fluffy loaf without any added oils. Perfect for health-conscious bakers, this bread delivers a nutritious punch while maintaining that perfect sandwich-worthy texture.
Ingredients
For one loaf:
- 4 cups (480g) bread flour
- 3 tablespoons (37g) sugar
- 2 teaspoons (6g) instant yeast
- 1½ teaspoons (9g) salt
- 1 can (15.5 oz/440g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1½ cups/255g cooked chickpeas)
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Mix
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine bread flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
- Whisk together to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Prepare the Chickpeas
- Drain and thoroughly rinse the chickpeas
- Place in a microwave-safe bowl
- Heat for 60 seconds until hot and slightly mushy
- Make the Dough
- Add the warm chickpeas and water to the dry ingredients
- Mix at low speed (speed 2) for about 1 minute until combined
- Continue kneading for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and pulls away from the bowl
- Adjust consistency with 1-2 tablespoons of water or flour if needed
- First Rise
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap
- Let rise in a warm place for 80-100 minutes until doubled in size
- Shape the Loaf
- Turn dough onto a floured surface
- Divide into 4 equal pieces
- Roll each piece into a 6×9 inch rectangle
- Fold into thirds, then roll tightly from the long side
- Pinch ends to seal
- Place all rolls in a greased bread pan
- Second Rise and Bake
- Let rise for 60-80 minutes until puffy
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C)
- Optional: Brush with non-dairy milk mixed with maple syrup
- Bake for 15 minutes
- Cover with foil and bake additional 15 minutes
- Bread is done when internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C)
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 slices)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 295mg
Timing:
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Rising time: 2.5-3 hours
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 3.5-4 hours
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature ingredients for optimal yeast activation
- The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable – resist adding too much flour
- Create a warm environment for rising by placing the dough in an oven with just the light on
- Test doneness with a thermometer for perfect results every time
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing for clean cuts
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace bread flour with all-purpose flour (texture will be slightly less chewy)
- Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for savory variations
- Incorporate whole wheat flour (up to 25%) for added nutrition
- Add seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, sesame) for extra crunch
Common FAQs
Q: Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?
A: Yes, you can knead by hand for 15-20 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Q: Why use chickpeas in bread?
A: Chickpeas add protein, moisture, and create a tender crumb without the need for added fats.
Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?
A: Yes, but dissolve it in the warm water first and let it proof for 5-10 minutes before adding to the dry ingredients.
Q: Why did my bread not rise properly?
A: Check your yeast freshness and ensure your liquid temperature is between 105-115°F (40-46°C) for optimal yeast activation.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container or bread bag for 3-4 days
- Freeze sliced bread for up to 3 months in freezer bags
- Thaw frozen bread at room temperature or toast directly from frozen
- For meal prep, shape the dough and refrigerate overnight for the second rise
- Refresh slightly stale bread by toasting or warming briefly in the oven
This recipe yields one perfect loaf of protein-enriched sandwich bread that’s ideal for everything from morning toast to hearty sandwiches. The addition of chickpeas not only boosts the nutritional profile but also creates an incredibly tender and moist texture that stays fresh longer than traditional bread recipes.