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    5 Ingredient Flatbreads (no yeast)

    Mar 30, 2020 · 55 Comments

    Jump to Recipe

    Perhaps one of the best recipes if you’re low on ingredients, stuck at home, or looking for something super-simple-yet-fun that the kids can safely help with – or all of the above!

    All of that aside, this one of my absolute favorite recipes in the world. Period. Yet, at the same time, I’ve purposefully avoided posting it here for years – literally years.

    However, before I go any further, let me give you a little background on this particular recipe. First and foremost, I use this recipe on a regular basis – and have done since before I even started Living the Gourmet back in 2007. On the site, you’ve seen me pair it with sausage, peppers and gremolata, ratatouille, and homemade salsa. I’ve used them to make fajitas, I’ve wrapped falafel in them, and pick any of my red wine reviews at random, and there’s a pretty good chance that you’ll see me mentioning them somewhere as ‘a pairing-to-a-pairing.’

     

    Okay, you get the idea, I love these things, I use them all the time, you’ve seen them in a bunch of my recipes, and yet I’ve purposefully avoided posting about them – why?

    At the risk of being ‘too’ honest, these things rarely come out ‘quite’ the same way twice, and there’s never any ‘real’ reason as to ‘why.’ Sometimes they come out very fluffy, other times they come out quite thin, sometimes they fold super-pliably like a wrap, other times they’re more like a pita. Why? The truth is, they are ‘very’ sensitive to how you make them, to the point where even a slight deviation can result in a ‘very’ different flatbread. Maybe they were kneaded a touch longer or shorter? Maybe there was a literal ‘drop’ more or less moisture? Maybe the griddle was a slightly different temperature?

    As you might guess, I’ve been very apprehensive about posting a recipe that’s so difficult to replicate with assured uniformity, yet I just couldn’t keep this recipe to myself anymore – especially not since I use it in my posts so very often, and especially not since it’s so simple, so easy, and so blissfully versatile.

    Now, without further introduction, let’s dive into making what I consider to be a true kitchen ‘staple.’

    Why You’ll Love this Flatbread Recipe

    1) They Keep. These keep for up to a week – provided you keep them in a dry, cool place. I usually keep mine tied in a bag right on the counter, where they can sit for several days or more.

    2) They Heat Up Beautifully. Pop them in the toaster oven, or simply re-heat them dry on the griddle for a few minutes, and you’re good to go.

    3) Versatile. I’ll touch on this more below, but pretty much your use for flatbreads are limited solely by your imagination. Tacos, wraps, dips, quesadillas, as dinner bread, as the ‘plate’ for starters…you get the idea, and more on this below.

    4) Just a few key ingredients. These take just a few basic, long-lasting ingredients to prepare, as you can see from the recipe card below. Seriously, there are few recipes simpler than this one. Conversely, you can always dress these up by adding herbs like oregano, black pepper, garlic powder, or the such – but today we’re keeping it simple.

    Tips for Preparing the Best Homemade Flatbreads

    While I included a basic recipe below, that’s actually half the trick to getting these things right.

    1) Start with the Recipe Below. To start, begin with the recipe I included bellow in the recipe card. That is, combine the ingredients, mix them into a dough, and then begin kneading.

    2) While Kneading. Once you’ve begun kneading, that’s where ‘you’ need to take over. As you knead, you want the dough to feel ‘moist’ but not ‘wet.’ You want it to be slightly sticky, but you don’t want it leaving your fingers messy. Conversely, you don’t want the dough to be flaking or ‘sand-like.’ If any of that ‘is’ happening, you need to begin adjusting by doing the following…

    3) Is the dough too dry? If the dough is dry, meaning it isn’t moist to the touch, or if it’s flaking, simply add water – but only add water in roughly tablespoon intervals or less, kneading as you go until you have achieved a balanced dough.

    4) Is the dough too wet or too sticky? If so, simply do the following – dust the surface on which you are kneading the dough with flour, and rub a ‘pinch’ of flour onto the dough itself, and continue the kneading process. Repeat this until you have achieved a ‘balanced’ dough.

    5) A Hot Griddle or Large Pan. Here again, we are looking for balance. We want a ‘moderately’ hot, dry griddle or large pan. Preferably cast iron for best results, though stainless still or copper will suffice. Do ‘not’ use nonstick for this recipe. No oil, no nonstick spray, no butter. Dry.

    Flatbreads: Naan, Pita, Tortilla…is there ‘really’ a difference?

    1) Tortillas. In truth, today’s flatbreads are more or less ‘flour tortillas.’ That said, while tortillas are typically made with a corn base, flour is an increasingly common substitute – this is especially true in Northern Mexico where flour tortillas are the norm, as well as in El Salvador and Guatemala. That said, many flour tortillas are typically fluffier or thicker than today’s flatbreads. For example, Salvadorian ‘chengas’ or Guatemalan ‘baleadas’ are both a fair bit larger and thicker than today’s flatbreads. Conversely, most corn tortillas are markedly thinner than today’s flatbreads. As a result, today’s flatbreads are somewhere in between.

    2) Naan. While technically a flatbread, naan is prepared using yeast-risen dough. The addition of yogurt ‘and’ milk creates a thick, moist, flatbread that isn’t quite that flat, and which is ‘not’ typically intended to act as a wrap. Naan is a far more substantial flatbread than today’s recipe, and is more typically used for dipping, or as a base for spreads, or as a sort of ‘edible plate’ onto which food is layered as a meal.

    3) Pitas. Take a flour tortilla recipe, add in yeast-leavening, and you’ve got a pita. That said, unlike flatbreads or flour tortillas, pitas are meant to be ‘stuffed’ rather than folded, being much more thick and airy than your typical yeast-less flour tortilla or basic flatbread.

    4) Interchangeable…except when they’re not. To demonstrate what I mean, take a look at my Greek Tuna Salad Pockets. That’s a recipe that would be just fine eaten on naan, rolled in a tortilla wrap, or folded into a flatbread, as opposed to being stuffed into a pita. However, while I doubt many would complain if you made a gyro by wrapping sliced lamb in a flatbread as opposed to stuffing it in a pita, a tortilla gyro…while that can certainly be tasty, it more or less ceases to be a gyro at that point, and naan is perhaps a bit to ‘substantial’ to properly fold ‘gyro-style’ without tearing. Furthermore, tortilla wraps are simply more pliable than their flatbread, naan, or pita counterparts. Thus, they ‘can’ be interchanged…except when they can’t. In other words, use your own imagination and discretion.

    What to do with Flatbreads

    1) Tacos. Naturally, since today’s flatbreads are quite similar to flour tortillas, these are great for tacos. For example, take a look at my Greek Tacos, which feature a medley of Greek flavors combined with a chop meat and sweet peppers filling, and then topped with a honey, onion, and cilantro ‘garnish.’ Conversely, you could use these in something like my Blackened Cod Fish Tacos. Naturally, a ‘standard’ taco of chili, cheese, peppers, and greens would also work beautifully.

    2) Spreads. I’m thinking of bean dips, gremolata, salsa, and the like. For example, an Artichoke Heart Dip featuring a coarsely processed combination of artichoke hearts, basil, and parsley, blended with olives, oil, red pepper, and fresh lemon juice, would be great spread on top of today’s flatbreads. You might also consider a fresh tomato salsa, or my super simple Cilantro and Cannellini Bean dip.

    3) Antipasto. This is where these flatbreads really shine, when you can combine various items on the flatbread like cheeses, oils, peppers, cured meats, olives, and the such, allowing you to really play with the rustic tones of the flatbreads. For inspiration, check out my antipasto boards here and here.

    4) Sandwich Wraps and Melts. These are also great for heated sandwich wraps or melts, and here you can think basic or fancy. Things like deli ham, melted cheese, and relish, or basic tuna salad with melted cheese both work fine. Conversely, you could layer on things like grilled peppers with thinly sliced steak or sausage, or prepare an aguachili and greens topped flatbread. Here’s a link to my favorite aguachili recipe.

    Print
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    5 Ingredient Flatbreads (no yeast)


    ★★★★★

    5 from 1 review

    • Author: Living the Gourmet
    • Total Time: 20 minutes
    • Yield: 12 flatbreads 1x
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    • 3 cups all-purpose flour - plus more for dusting
    • 3 tsp. baking powder
    • 1 1/2 tsp. sea salt
    • 4 tbs. olive oil or vegetable oil
    • 1 cup water - added 4 tablespoons at a time

    Instructions

    1. Place the flour in a large bowl.
    2. Make a well in the middle of the flour and add the baking powder and salt.
    3. Add the oil and the water and using a fork, stir the flour.
    4. Add the water 4 tablespoons at a time, until you get a nice soft, bouncy dough.
    5. Once the mixture comes together, the dough will be sticky but moist and soft.
    6. Knead the dough for about one minute and pat with flour.
    7. Cut a chunk of dough and form into a ball.
    8. Dust the surface with flour and roll out the dough nice and thin.
    9. Heat a dry, large cast iron frying pan.
    10. Place the flatbread in the pan and when you see bubbles form and rise, turn over and finish cooking.
    11. Serve with your favorite dishes.
    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 10 minutes

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @LTGfood on Instagram and hashtag it #LTGfood

    Recipe Card powered byTasty Recipes

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    Be sure to follow us on Instagram to stay up to date with all things Living the Gourmet, and for more great recipes, tips and tricks.

    Did you make this recipe?

    If so, let me know in the comments down below, or post a picture to Instagram, or to Pinterest, and I’ll give you a shoutout on Instagram, or post your pin to one of my Pinterest boards!

    16

    Bread/Muffins/Other Baked Delights

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. angiesrecipes says

      March 31, 2020 at 4:16 am

      Fresh homemade bread, yeast or quick, is the best!

      Reply
      • Catherine Pappas says

        March 31, 2020 at 6:23 pm

        Dear Angie, I love bread of all kinds too.

        Please stay safe. xo

        Reply
    2. DAVID J MYERS says

      March 31, 2020 at 4:41 pm

      Catherine, We've never made tortillas, naan or flatbreads at home but given our current situation, this is a great time to give them a try. We've used all of the above in many ways...as you have pointed out, they are very versatile. Stay Safe and Take Care, Big Daddy Dave

      Reply
      • Catherine Pappas says

        March 31, 2020 at 6:25 pm

        Dear Dave,

        This is a very trying time for all of us.

        Making bread of any kind is comforting and delicious. If you give this a try I hope that you like it.

        All the very best to you and Laurie and your family.

        Reply
    3. Heather says

      April 01, 2020 at 2:11 am

      We were just talking about making flatbread. Our store is completely out of yeast so I can actually try this recipe!

      Reply
      • Catherine Pappas says

        April 01, 2020 at 2:29 pm

        Dear Heather,

        These are difficult times. My grocery store was empty. The shelves were bare with very few items left. It was very surreal.
        I love a piece of bread. In fact I think bread is my favorite food.
        These are very easy to make, just make sure the dough is soft and moist and bouncy.
        Please stay safe and I hope you enjoy the flat breads.
        xo

        Reply
    4. Talya says

      April 01, 2020 at 9:54 am

      I absolutely love flatbreads but have never thought of making my own. It looks so easy!

      Reply
    5. Melissa Cushing says

      April 01, 2020 at 1:33 pm

      Thank you so much for sharing! I have been baking and cooking a lot the last week or two since we are all home and I would love some homemade Pita Bread! I am totally grabbing this recipe and making a batch for myself as I have some yummy hummus to dip it with 🙂

      Reply
      • Catherine Pappas says

        April 01, 2020 at 2:30 pm

        Dear Melissa,

        I hope you this recipe if you decide to make it. It does go perfect with hummus.
        Be sure the dough is soft, moist and "bouncy" to the touch.
        Please stay safe.
        xo

        Reply
    6. Cyndy says

      April 01, 2020 at 3:45 pm

      Thanks for these great ideas. No yeast to be found at any of the stores so this is super helpful!

      Reply
      • Catherine Pappas says

        April 02, 2020 at 11:55 pm

        I hope you like this recipe if you try it Cyndy. Please stay safe.

        Reply
    7. Candice says

      April 01, 2020 at 4:14 pm

      I love that this recipe only has 5 ingredients and that I already had them! It was fun to make with my hubby, and they came out great. Can't wait to make them again!

      Reply
      • Catherine Pappas says

        April 02, 2020 at 11:58 pm

        Dear Candice,
        Thank you for trying these and I am so happy to hear that they came out good. I love hearing from someone who tried a recipe. It makes it all worthwhile. Please stay safe.

        Reply
    8. Charla @ That Girl Cooks Healthy says

      April 01, 2020 at 4:22 pm

      Oh I do love some good old flatbread. I like to dunk mine in some tomato soup, thanks for those tips on how to perfect the dough texture.

      Reply
      • Catherine Pappas says

        April 03, 2020 at 7:02 pm

        I love to dip my flatbread as well. It is a simple comfort.

        Reply
    9. Cathy says

      April 01, 2020 at 4:36 pm

      Thank you for sharing this. I am going to have to give this a try! I think I have all the ingredients in my pantry---be well!

      Reply
      • Catherine Pappas says

        April 03, 2020 at 7:03 pm

        I hope that you enjoy the flatbread if you give them a try.

        Reply
    10. Sue-Tanya Mchorgh says

      April 01, 2020 at 4:36 pm

      I love, love, love flatbreads. I can't wait to try this recipe.

      Reply
    11. Abigail Raines says

      April 01, 2020 at 4:42 pm

      So many yummy uses for flatbreads so what perfect timing to enjoy some! Love that it's a breeze to make!

      Reply
    12. Emily Liao says

      April 01, 2020 at 4:59 pm

      This flatbread was perfect for last night's dinner! Used it as a wrap for some sauteed mushrooms and spinach.

      Reply
    13. Myrah Duque says

      April 02, 2020 at 1:51 am

      I prefer eating flatbread than the regular one. I've never made it, will have to try it.

      Reply
    14. Chiara says

      April 02, 2020 at 9:45 pm

      I will have to try this recipe, I love flatbread, thanks for sharing Catherine ! A warm hug

      Reply
      • Catherine Pappas says

        April 03, 2020 at 7:04 pm

        A warm hug to you dear Chiara,

        Please stay safe and stay well to you and Marco. You are in my thoughts. xo

        Reply
    15. Natural Beauty And Makeup says

      April 02, 2020 at 11:05 pm

      I love flatbread but have never tried making one at home! I will have to try your recipe now.

      Reply
    16. Catherine Pappas says

      April 03, 2020 at 7:05 pm

      I hope you give them a try and enjoy them. Stay well and safe.

      Reply
    17. Laura Schwormstedt says

      April 04, 2020 at 1:22 am

      Ooh I love flatbreads and they look so easy to make - thanks so much for sharing this recipe, will deffo give it a go

      Laura x

      Reply
    18. Gloria says

      April 06, 2020 at 7:08 pm

      Bread making/baking is the rage right now. I need to give this a try. I love flatbread. Perfect for stuffing. Great for dipping.

      Reply
    19. Chef Dennis says

      April 07, 2020 at 8:31 am

      These Flatbreads look sooo delicious and not to mention that it's easy to make. I also love that you can commonly see ingredients in your pantry. Thanks for sharing this.

      Reply
    20. Amy says

      April 07, 2020 at 5:37 pm

      I love flatbread, but it can be so time-consuming to make! Thanks for sharing this quick, simple recipe -- I can't wait to try it!

      Reply
    21. Anna says

      April 08, 2020 at 1:46 pm

      These are so great, especially in the current climate when yeast is so hard to find! Flatbreads are a great alternative and can be served with sooo many different dishes!

      Reply
    22. Denise says

      April 09, 2020 at 9:45 pm

      These look delicious! I love that its easy to make too. Thanks for sharing this recipe.

      Reply
    23. Ben Myhre says

      April 10, 2020 at 8:18 pm

      Yeast is out at the store, so what a great time to find this recipe. A person doesn't need many ingredients to make a beautiful, tasty bread and this recipe just shows that.

      Reply
    24. Sharon says

      April 10, 2020 at 10:05 pm

      These flatbreads are so easy to whip up when I want them for sandwiches or a side for soups or stews.

      Reply
    25. Danielle says

      April 11, 2020 at 11:27 pm

      I am running out of bread and it usually makes me panic a bit. Not this time. Flatbread will work just fine, and this recipe looks absolutely amazing - thank you!

      Reply
    26. Veronika says

      April 12, 2020 at 9:14 pm

      I always wanted to try to make flatbread at home! This recipe looks so simple and delicious! There are no excuses now not to make it!

      Reply
    27. Jo says

      April 13, 2020 at 10:43 am

      I make flatbread all the time this way. And I can tell it's simply the best!

      Reply
    28. Breach Arce says

      August 18, 2020 at 9:41 pm

      Ive tried it and its really good.Thank you..

      Reply
    29. Mason Solly says

      February 15, 2023 at 10:59 am

      how much bread does this make in terms of slices?

      ★★★★★

      Reply

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