Why You’ll Love This Lentil Bread Recipe
When you try this lentil bread recipe, you’ll quickly discover why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The texture is wonderfully soft, yet it has a satisfying chew that keeps me coming back for more.
I love how it’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it a healthier option than standard bread. Plus, the nutty flavor of lentils adds a unique twist that elevates any sandwich or toast.
It’s super easy to make with my bread machine, saving me time without sacrificing taste. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to bake it again and again!
Ingredients of Lentil Bread
Making lentil bread is a delightful adventure that starts with gathering the right ingredients. Now, if you’re like me, you probably appreciate a straightforward and healthy recipe that won’t require a trip to a specialty store. Luckily, this lentil bread recipe is made with ingredients most of us have on hand. So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to whip up this comforting loaf.
Ingredients for Lentil Bread:
- 3/4 cup water, plus 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/3 cup cooked lentils
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/3 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/3 cup unbleached flour
- 1 1/2 tablespoons essential wheat gluten
- 2 tablespoons whey powder (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
Now, let’s chat about some of these ingredients. First off, if you don’t have cooked lentils, don’t worry; they’re super easy to make. Just boil them until tender, and you’re good to go.
The olive oil not only adds moisture but also gives the bread a lovely flavor. And honey? It’s the secret weapon to add just a hint of sweetness, balancing out the nuttiness of the lentils.
If you’re skipping the whey powder, that’s totally fine—your bread will still turn out deliciously. As for the flours, the combination of whole wheat and unbleached flour gives the bread that hearty texture, making it perfect for sandwiches or just slathering with butter (or whatever spreads you fancy).
How to Make Lentil Bread
Making lentil bread is a fun and rewarding process, and trust me, it’s easier than you might think. To start, you’ll want to gather your ingredients: you’ll need 3/4 cup of water, plus an extra tablespoon for good measure. This is where the magic begins. Pour that water into your bread machine, followed by 1 tablespoon of olive oil—this will help keep your bread moist and give it a lovely flavor.
Next, add 1 tablespoon of honey. I mean, who doesn’t love a touch of sweetness? After all, it’s not just for tea.
Now, here comes the star of the show—1/3 cup of cooked lentils. If you haven’t made lentils before, don’t sweat it; just boil them until they’re nice and tender. Then, toss those lentils into the mix like you’re a master chef.
After that, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt to balance all those flavors. Then, let’s get into the flours: you’ll want to add 1 1/3 cups of whole wheat flour and 1/3 cup of unbleached flour. The combination gives your bread that hearty texture that’s simply perfect for sandwiches.
Up next, you’ll need 1 1/2 tablespoons of crucial wheat gluten. This ingredient helps give the bread its structure, so don’t skip it unless you want a flat loaf that’s more pancake than bread. If you’re feeling adventurous and have whey powder on hand, toss in 2 tablespoons; otherwise, you can leave it out without any guilt.
Finally, sprinkle in 1 1/2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, which is indispensable for that lovely rise.
Once everything is in the bread machine, close the lid and select the Basic Wheat Cycle with a light setting—this will guarantee your bread comes out perfectly golden.
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “What if I forget to check on it?” But don’t worry; just let the machine do its thing. It’s like having a little kitchen elf working hard while you go about your day.
When the cycle is complete, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will be utterly delightful, and you’ll probably feel like a bread-making superstar. Just remember, patience is key, so resist the urge to cut into that loaf too soon.
Allow it to cool for a bit, then slice into it, and savor every bite of your homemade lentil bread. Enjoy!
Lentil Bread Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the art of making lentil bread, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up a bit.
For a different flavor, try adding spices like cumin or garlic powder. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the whole wheat flour with almond or oat flour.
You can also experiment with different types of lentils, like red or black, to see how that changes the texture.
Want a bit of sweetness? Toss in some dried fruits or nuts.
Each variation can turn your lentil bread into a new favorite that suits your taste!
Additional Tips & Notes
While experimenting with lentil bread can be fun, a few tips can elevate your baking experience.
First, make sure your lentils are cooked and cooled before adding them to the mix; this helps achieve the right texture.
I recommend using a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for the flour. If your dough seems too sticky, add a bit more flour gradually.
Letting the bread cool completely before slicing prevents it from becoming gummy.
Finally, don’t hesitate to tweak the recipe with herbs or spices for added flavor.
Enjoy your baking adventure; it’s all about finding what works for you!