Getting started with flat breads can be a bit daunting, especially for beginners. With so many variations and types to choose from, it’s hard to know where to begin. But fear not! In this article, we’ll dive into 20 easy flat bread recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic naan and pita bread to more adventurous options like za’atar spiced manakish and vegan coconut flour flatbread, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite meals, these simple yet satisfying flat breads are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and some simple preparation. So why wait? Let’s get started with our first 10 recipes…
Garlic Naan with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your naan game by infusing it with the pungency of garlic and the freshness of herbs. This recipe is a perfect blend of Indian flavors and global twists.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or basil), chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Ghee or melted butter for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water and mix until a smooth dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it becomes elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat a non-stick skillet or tava over medium heat.
6. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions and roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/4 inch thick).
7. Place the naan on the preheated skillet, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs evenly.
8. Cook for about 2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
9. Flip and cook the other side for another minute.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Savor the flavor of freshly baked pita bread with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and some basic kneading, you’ll be enjoying warm, crispy pitas in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until dough forms.
3. Knead dough on floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down dough and shape into 2-3 pitas.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick and Fluffy Roti
Roti is a staple Indian flatbread that can be whipped up quickly for a delicious meal or snack. With this simple recipe, you’ll have soft and fluffy rotis in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the water to the flour mixture and knead for 5-7 minutes until a smooth dough forms.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or tava over medium heat.
7. Cook the roti for 30-45 seconds on each side, until it puffs up and has a few brown spots.
Cooking Time:
10-12 minutes (depending on the number of rotis cooked)
Cheesy Stuffed Paratha
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional Indian flatbread by filling it with melted cheese and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Gradually add water and knead for 5 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Place a tablespoon of grated cheese in the center of each circle.
7. Sprinkle cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt to taste over the cheese.
8. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape.
9. Seal the edges by pressing with your fingers or using a fork.
10. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Spicy Potato Chapati
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful Spicy Potato Chapati recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Water, as needed
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, flour, baking powder, salt, cumin powder, and red chili powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal portions, depending on desired thickness.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook chapatis for 30-45 seconds per side, until they puff up and have brown spots.
6. Brush with melted butter or ghee, if desired.
7. Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive and Rosemary Focaccia
Olive and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a delicious focaccia bread, infused with the savory taste of olives and rosemary. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough on a floured surface, shape into an oval, and dimple with your fingers.
5. Sprinkle rosemary leaves and olives evenly over the focaccia.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Soft and Buttery Tortillas
A classic Mexican staple, these soft and buttery tortillas are perfect for wrapping up your favorite fillings or using as a base for tacos and other dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the warm water while stirring with a fork until the dough starts to form.
3. Add in the vegetable oil and continue stirring until the dough is smooth and pliable.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
8. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
9. Cook the tortillas for 30-45 seconds on each side, until they are soft and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including resting time)
Crispy Lavash Crackers
A classic Middle Eastern recipe, these crispy crackers are perfect as a snack or accompaniment to your favorite dips and spreads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet (about 1/16 inch thick).
4. Brush the sheets with vegetable oil, then sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
5. Cut the sheets into desired shapes or strips.
6. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the crackers for 30-45 seconds per side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes per batch
Yield: 16-20 crackers
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Flatbread
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Flatbread Recipe
Warm up with a sweet treat that combines the simplicity of flatbread with the comfort of cinnamon sugar. This recipe yields soft, chewy flatbreads perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces.
6. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over each flatbread.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Yield: 6 sweet cinnamon sugar flatbreads
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sourdough Discard Flatbread
This recipe transforms sourdough starter discard into a delicious and crispy flatbread, perfect for snacking or using as a base for various toppings.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup sourdough starter discard (100% hydration)
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter discard and warm water. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Add olive oil and salt to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 2-3 equal pieces, depending on desired flatbread size.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the flatbread for 30-45 seconds per side, until it’s crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per flatbread
Spinach and Feta Gözleme
Gözleme, a traditional Turkish dish, is a savory pastry filled with spinach, feta cheese, and spices. This recipe brings together the flavors of the Mediterranean in a deliciously easy-to-make snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, olive oil, onion, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut it into desired sizes for your gözleme.
4. Place a spoonful of the spinach-feta mixture onto one half of each piece of phyllo, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing the edges together to seal the pastry.
6. Brush the tops with a little water and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten-Free Chickpea Flatbread
Looking to add a healthy twist to your flatbread game? This gluten-free chickpea flatbread recipe is a great option, using chickpeas as the base instead of traditional flour.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup gluten-free oat flour
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, oat flour, and melted coconut oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Add salt, baking soda, and apple cider vinegar. Blend until well combined.
4. Gradually add water and blend until a thick batter forms.
5. Divide the batter into 2-3 portions, depending on desired flatbread size.
6. Place each portion onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey and Oat Flatbread
A sweet and savory flatbread perfect for a snack or as a base for your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats and warm water. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes gel-like.
2. Add honey, salt, and yeast (if using) to the bowl. Mix well to combine.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 2-3 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 2-3 equal portions, depending on desired thickness.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook flatbread for 30-45 seconds per side, until lightly browned and crispy.
8. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, hummus, or sliced meats.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes per side (6-12 minutes total)
Za’atar Spiced Manakish
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of pita bread with the aromatic flavors of za’atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack, these spiced manakish are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of active dry yeast
– 2 cups of warm water
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of za’atar spice blend (thyme, oregano, marjoram, and sumac)
– 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, warm water, olive oil, and salt. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add flour to the mixture and knead for 10 minutes until smooth dough forms.
3. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Punch down the dough, divide into 6-8 equal pieces, shape into balls, and then flatten into circles.
6. Sprinkle za’atar spice blend and sesame seeds on each circle.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Coconut Flour Flatbread
Discover a deliciously simple flatbread that combines the warmth of coconut with the nuttiness of flour. This vegan-friendly recipe is perfect for snacking or using as a base for your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped herbs, or spices
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine coconut flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in water and coconut milk, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 2-3 equal portions, depending on desired thickness.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook flatbread for 30-45 seconds per side, until lightly browned and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes per side
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Flatbread
This flavorful flatbread combines the creamy richness of pesto with the sweet, chewy texture of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into disks.
5. Brush pesto onto one half of each disk, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top with sun-dried tomatoes.
6. Fold the other half over to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges gently to seal.
7. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Simit Bread
Add a rich and savory twist to the classic Turkish simit bread with this simple garlic butter recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water (100°F – 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and roll out into desired thickness.
7. Brush with garlic butter (softened butter mixed with minced garlic) and egg wash.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Fluffy Scallion Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy pancakes infused with the savory flavor of scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped scallions.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil.
6. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Turmeric and Sesame Flatbread
Turmeric and Sesame Flatbread Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful flatbread recipe, infused with the earthy warmth of turmeric and the nutty goodness of sesame.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a sticky dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
4. Brush the surface of each flatbread with olive oil. Sprinkle turmeric and sesame seeds evenly.
5. Cook in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon and Thyme Grilled Flatbread
Lemon and Thyme Grilled Flatbread Recipe
Elevate your flatbread game with this bright and citrusy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide dough into 2-3 equal pieces and roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Brush both sides of flatbread with olive oil.
7. Grill flatbread for 1-2 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
8. Remove from grill and brush with lemon juice and sprinkle with thyme.
9. Top with feta cheese crumbles (if using) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Summary
Start your flat bread-making journey with these 20 easy recipes perfect for beginners! From classic naan to crispy lavash crackers, discover a variety of flavors and textures. Try garlic naan with fresh herbs, whole wheat pita bread, or cheesy stuffed paratha. Or, explore international options like spicy potato chapati, olive and rosemary focaccia, or vegan coconut flour flatbread. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be whipping up delicious flat breads in no time.
