A few years ago, when I first started exploring the world of Indian flatbreads, I was immediately drawn to the idea of chickpea flour flatbread. Chickpea flour, also known as besan, is a naturally gluten-free flour that is made from ground chickpeas. It has a nutty flavor and a slightly gritty texture that makes it perfect for flatbreads. This thyme and lemon infused chickpea flour flatbread is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this versatile flour. The flatbread is made with just a few ingredients, and it can be ready in under 30 minutes. It's the perfect bread to serve with your favorite Indian dishes, or to enjoy on its own as a healthy and satisfying snack.
The history of chickpea flour flatbread is a long and winding one. Chickpeas have been cultivated in India for centuries, and they have been used to make flatbreads for just as long. The earliest known recipe for chickpea flour flatbread dates back to the 13th century, and it is likely that this type of flatbread was being made even earlier. Chickpea flour flatbread is a staple food in many parts of India, and it is often served with curries, dals, and other traditional Indian dishes. It is also a popular street food, and it can be found in many markets and food stalls throughout the country.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 12 | Serves: 6
Ingredients
1 cup chickpea flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
In a large bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add the water, olive oil, thyme, and lemon zest and stir until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces.
Roll out each piece of dough into a thin circle.
Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with parsley.
Why It Works
The combination of chickpea flour and water creates a dough that is both gluten-free and vegan. The dough is easy to work with and it can be rolled out into very thin flatbreads.
The addition of baking powder helps the flatbreads to rise slightly, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
The thyme and lemon zest add a subtle flavor to the flatbreads. The thyme adds a touch of earthiness, while the lemon zest adds a touch of brightness.
The flatbreads are cooked in a hot oven, which gives them a crispy exterior and a soft and chewy interior.