All Recipes
Soft and Fluffy Bread with Chickpea Spread Recipe
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 â…“ cups (850 g) all-purpose flour
- â…” 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
- â…“ cup (70 ml) water
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) sweet paprika
Directions:
For the Bread:
- 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.
- Gradually add the flour to the yeast mixture, mixing to form a dough. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Add the softened butter and knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough and allow it to rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Shape the dough into loaves or rolls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown.
For the Chickpea Spread:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.