Savory red lentil bread is a nutritious and versatile dish that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. Made primarily from red lentils, this gluten-free and vegan-friendly bread offers a wholesome alternative to traditional wheat-based loaves. Red lentils are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this bread perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you enjoy it with a hearty spread, pair it with soup, or use it as a side for salads, red lentil bread adds a delicious, health-conscious option to your daily meals.
One of the highlights of this recipe is its simplicity. You need only a handful of ingredients, and the steps are easy to follow. With no yeast required, this bread also saves time, making it a quick and easy recipe to prepare. The versatility of this bread allows for variations and customization, depending on your preferred flavors or dietary needs. Read on to discover how to make this savory red lentil bread and incorporate it into any meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils
– 1 ½ cups water
– one tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for greasing the pan)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
– one teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
– ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for added flavor)
– ½ teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color and flavor)
– Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano (optional, to taste)
– Sesame seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds (optional, for topping)
Preparation
Step 1: Soak the Red Lentils
Start by rinsing 1 cup of red lentils under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Place the rinsed lentils in a bowl and cover them with 1 ½ cups of water. Let the lentils soak for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible. The lentils will absorb water and soften during this time, making them easier to blend and providing the batter with the right consistency.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
While the lentils are soaking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or baking dish with a little olive oil to ensure the bread doesn’t stick. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 3: Blend the Lentils
After the lentils have soaked, transfer them along with the soaking water into a blender or food processor. Add the tablespoon of olive oil, baking powder, salt, and any optional spices or herbs you choose (such as garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, turmeric, and herbs). Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. The consistency should resemble a thick pancake batter.
Step 4: Pour the Batter into the Pan
Once your lentil mixture is smooth, pour it into the greased or parchment-lined loaf pan. If you’re using seeds for topping, now is the time to sprinkle them over the batter. Sesame seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds add a nice crunch and extra nutrition to the bread.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Once the bread is fully baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Variation:
Savory red lentil bread is a highly adaptable recipe. Here are some variations you can try:
– Cheesy Lentil Bread: For a vegetarian variation, mix in ½ cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) into the batter for a cheesy flavor.
– Spiced Lentil Bread: To add more warmth and depth, incorporate spices like paprika, coriander, or chili flakes.
– Vegetable-Loaded Lentil Bread: Add grated carrots, zucchini, or finely chopped spinach for a veggie-packed loaf.
– Nutty Lentil Bread: Stir in chopped walnuts or almonds to give the bread a nutty crunch.
– Sweet and Savory Lentil Bread: For a sweet-savory twist, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey and a handful of dried cranberries.
COOKING Note:
Red lentil bread has a dense, hearty texture that’s ideal for savory spreads like hummus, avocado, or dairy-free cream cheese. You can also toast slices to enjoy a crispy outer layer and serve alongside soups or stews. The bread’s flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of ingredients, so don’t hesitate to experiment with spices, herbs, and seeds. For storage, keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to store it for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices individually to enjoy later.
Serving Suggestions:
– For Breakfast: Serve toasted slices of red lentil bread with avocado, a sprinkle of salt, and red pepper flakes.
– Lunch: Use the bread as a base for an open-faced sandwich with your favorite toppings like hummus, roasted vegetables, or sliced turkey.
– For Dinner: Pair the bread with soups or stews, such as lentil soup, tomato soup, or a hearty vegetable stew. It also makes a great accompaniment to a salad for a lighter meal.
– As a Snack: Enjoy the bread with nut butter, hummus, or simply dip it into olive oil with a pinch of herbs for a quick snack.
Tips:
– Ensure that your lentils are thoroughly soaked before blending. This is essential to achieving the right texture for the bread.
– If you prefer a lighter texture, you can substitute part of the red lentils with chickpea flour or oat flour.
– For extra crispiness, you can toast the top of the bread by placing it under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
– Experiment with different herbs and spices to create a bread that matches your personal taste. Fresh rosemary or thyme works particularly well for a Mediterranean flavor.
– Always allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
Prep Time: 2 hours (for soaking lentils)
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Nutritional Information(Per Serving):
– Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per slice (based on 10 servings)
– Protein: 5 grams per slice
– Sodium: 250 mg per slice (depending on the salt and seasonings used)
– Fat: 3 grams per slice (primarily from olive oil)
FAQs:
1. Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils?
While red lentils are preferred for their soft texture and quicker cooking time, you can experiment with green or brown lentils. However, they may result in a denser loaf and will require longer soaking.
2. Is this bread gluten-free?
Yes, this red lentil bread is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-based products.
3. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! Red lentil bread stores well, and you can make it ahead and keep it refrigerated or frozen for later use. Just toast or reheat slices before serving.
4. What spreads go well with red lentil bread?
This bread pairs beautifully with a variety of spreads, including hummus, avocado, nut butters, tahini, and even savory jams or chutneys.
5. Can I freeze red lentil bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread. Slice it before freezing, so you can easily take out individual slices as needed. Freeze them in an airtight container or ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
Conclusion:
Savory red lentil bread is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that fits perfectly into any meal of the day. Its simple preparation, wholesome ingredients, and endless variations make it a go-to recipe for anyone seeking a gluten-free, vegan-friendly bread option. Whether you serve it as a side, a snack, or the main feature of your meal, this red lentil bread is sure to impress with its flavor and texture. So, the next time you want a healthy and hearty bread to accompany your meals, give this savory red lentil bread recipe a try and enjoy its delightful taste!
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Savory Red Lentil Bread for Any Meal
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils
– 1 ½ cups water
– one tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for greasing the pan)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
– one teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
– ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for added flavor)
– ½ teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color and flavor)
– Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano (optional, to taste)
– Sesame seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Soak the Red Lentils
Start by rinsing 1 cup of red lentils under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Place the rinsed lentils in a bowl and cover them with 1 ½ cups of water. Let the lentils soak for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible. The lentils will absorb water and soften during this time, making them easier to blend and providing the batter with the right consistency.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
While the lentils are soaking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or baking dish with a little olive oil to ensure the bread doesn’t stick. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 3: Blend the Lentils
After the lentils have soaked, transfer them along with the soaking water into a blender or food processor. Add the tablespoon of olive oil, baking powder, salt, and any optional spices or herbs you choose (such as garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, turmeric, and herbs). Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. The consistency should resemble a thick pancake batter.
Step 4: Pour the Batter into the Pan
Once your lentil mixture is smooth, pour it into the greased or parchment-lined loaf pan. If you’re using seeds for topping, now is the time to sprinkle them over the batter. Sesame seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds add a nice crunch and extra nutrition to the bread.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Once the bread is fully baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Red lentil bread has a dense, hearty texture that’s ideal for savory spreads like hummus, avocado, or dairy-free cream cheese. You can also toast slices to enjoy a crispy outer layer and serve alongside soups or stews. The bread’s flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of ingredients, so don’t hesitate to experiment with spices, herbs, and seeds. For storage, keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to store it for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices individually to enjoy later.
- Prep Time: 2 hours (for soaking lentils)
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per slice (based on 10 servings)
- Sodium: 250 mg per slice (depending on the salt and seasonings used)
- Fat: 3 grams per slice (primarily from olive oil)
- Protein: 5 grams per slice