Simple and Tasty Homemade Flatbread Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup warm water

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
  2. Add the olive oil and water to the dry mixture.
  3. Mix the ingredients until a dough begins to form. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it's too dry, add a bit more water.
  4. Once the dough is well combined, knead it on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  5. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
  6. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a thin circle.
  7. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook each flatbread for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Once cooked, transfer the flatbread to a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm. Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the dry ingredients and mixing the dough.
  • Rolling Pin - Used to flatten the dough into thin circles.
  • Skillet - A large, flat-bottomed pan for cooking the flatbreads.
  • Kitchen Towel - Used to cover the cooked flatbreads and keep them warm.

Recipe variations

  • Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option
  • Adding herbs and spices to the dough, such as garlic powder, oregano, or rosemary, for extra flavor
  • Using gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies
  • Replacing olive oil with melted butter or ghee for a different taste
  • Incorporating grated cheese or minced garlic into the dough for a cheesy or garlicky version
  • Making a sweet version by adding sugar and cinnamon to the dough
  • Using different toppings such as sautéed vegetables, cooked chicken or beef, or even scrambled eggs for a savory twist
  • Making mini flatbreads by dividing the dough into smaller portions
  • Experimenting with different cooking methods, such as baking the flatbreads in the oven or grilling them on a barbecue

Recipe overview

This simple and versatile Flatbread recipe will take your meal to the next level. Made from everyday pantry staples like all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, olive oil, and water, these flatbreads are easy to make and perfect for beginners. The dough is mixed, shaped into balls, and then rolled out into thin circles before being cooked on a hot skillet. The result is a beautifully golden and crispy bread with a soft and fluffy inside. Whether you eat them on their own, use them as a base for a delicious wrap or dip them in your favorite sauce, these homemade flatbreads are a culinary delight you won't want to miss.

Common questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour if you prefer a healthier option. Keep in mind that the texture and taste of the flatbread may be slightly different.
  2. Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Once the dough is kneaded, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to bring the dough to room temperature before proceeding with rolling and cooking.
  3. Can I freeze the flatbread? Absolutely! Once the flatbread is cooked and cooled, you can freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature or reheat it in a skillet or oven until heated through.
  4. Can I add herbs or spices to the dough? Yes, you can add herbs or spices to the dough to enhance the flavor. Consider adding dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary, or spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika. Adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences.
  5. What can I serve with flatbread? Flatbread is a versatile bread that can be served with a variety of dishes. It pairs well with dips like hummus, tzatziki, or Baba Ganoush. You can also use it as a wrap for sandwiches or as a base for pizzas. It's delicious with soups, stews, or curries too.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Flatbread, in its many varied forms, has been a staple food for thousands of years across diverse cultures. It's believed to have originated in Ancient Egypt around 5,000 B.C. The simplicity of its ingredients—just flour, water, and sometimes a bit of salt—made it easy for even the most primitive cultures to prepare. The dough could be cooked on hot stones, making it an accessible food for nomadic peoples. It's said that the Egyptian flatbread was so integral to their diet that it was even used as a form of currency in trade. Today, this simple bread has evolved into countless versions around the world, from the Indian naan and roti, to the Mexican tortilla, to the Middle Eastern pita, highlighting the universal appeal of this humble bread.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.