Soft and Fluffy Bread with Chickpea Spread Recipe

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Rest Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

• 1 ¾ cups (400 ml) warm water
• ¾ cup (200 ml) warm milk
• 2 teaspoons (10 g) sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (8 g) yeast
• 6 ⅓ cups (850 g) all-purpose flour
• ⅔ cup (150 g) soft butter

For the Chickpea Spread:

• 1 cup (200 g) cooked chickpeas
• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped (about ¾ cup or 100 g)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
• ⅓ cup (70 ml) water
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) sweet paprika

Directions:

For the Bread:

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, vegetable oil, and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Gradually add the flour to the yeast mixture, mixing to form a dough. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
3. Add the softened butter and knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough and allow it to rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Shape the dough into loaves or rolls and place them on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown.

For the Chickpea Spread:

1. In a small pan, sauté the chopped red bell pepper and minced garlic in a bit of olive oil over low heat for about 5 minutes.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the sautéed vegetables, chickpeas, lemon juice, olive oil, water, salt, and sweet paprika. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust seasoning to taste, and serve alongside the freshly baked bread.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the warm bread with chickpea spread on the side.
• Pair with a salad for a light and nutritious meal.
• Use the chickpea spread as a dip for vegetables or crackers.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips:

• Use warm (not hot) water and milk to ensure the yeast activates properly.
• For added flavor, try incorporating rosemary or thyme into the bread dough.
• If the dough is too sticky, add more flour gradually until the right consistency is achieved.
• To add some heat to the chickpea spread, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Bread: Rich in carbohydrates for energy, and the milk and butter add extra nutrients.
• Chickpea Spread: Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats from chickpeas and olive oil.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the bread.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 3g

Storage:

• Bread: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for extended storage.
• Chickpea Spread: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients.
• The soft, fluffy bread paired with creamy chickpea spread creates a delicious combination.
• Versatile enough for any meal or snack.
• Nutrient-rich and adaptable for various dietary preferences.

Conclusion:

This recipe for soft, fluffy bread and chickpea spread offers a satisfying and wholesome meal that is both easy to prepare and packed with nutrition. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later, it’s a versatile dish that fits any occasion, sure to be a family favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Can I use a different flour for the bread? Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free flour, though the texture may vary.
• Can I use canned chickpeas? Absolutely! Just rinse and drain them before using.
• How can I make the bread rise faster? Placing the dough in a warm area, such as an oven with the light on, can help speed up the rise.
• Can I prepare the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise for up to 24 hours.
• Can I add herbs to the bread dough? Yes, adding rosemary, thyme, or oregano can enhance the flavor.
• Can I freeze the chickpea spread? Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
• What can I substitute for butter in the bread? You can use plant-based margarine or any butter alternative.