Unleavened Bread
Unleavened bread offers a simple, wholesome crust with a nutty flavor, perfect for quick snacks, gluten-free diets, or when minimal ingredients are desired.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine whole-wheat flour, salt, olive oil, and water in a bowl, stirring with a fork.
- Use your hands to mix the ingredients into a stiff dough.
- Continue working the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, even if sticky at first.
- Pinch off 1-inch balls of dough and flatten each into about a 3-inch round.
- Bake in an oven or electric skillet at 400°F until slightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly different flavor, consider substituting half of the whole-wheat flour with spelt flour. If you want to add more texture, include herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough. Make sure the water is warm to help with the dough's elasticity. If the dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Unleavened bread pairs beautifully with Tabbouleh (Middle Eastern Salad) or can be served alongside dips like Split Pea Hummus. It also makes a great accompaniment to soups and stews, enhancing the meal's heartiness. Enjoy it with Simple Sangria for a refreshing drink pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover unleavened bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, a skillet can be used to lightly toast the bread for a few minutes on each side.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unleavened Bread contains roughly 285 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1745mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make unleavened bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whole-wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or similar to help the dough bind. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How can I add flavor to the dough?
To enhance the flavor of your unleavened bread, consider incorporating spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cumin. You can also mix in finely chopped herbs like parsley or oregano for a fresh twist.
Can I freeze unleavened bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours or reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).