Garlic Herb Flatbread with Hummus

When I first tried the Garlic Herb Flatbread with Hummus, I was captivated by its simplicity and richness in flavor. The combination of the warm, soft flatbread with the creamy, savory hummus was nothing short of heavenly. My family, notorious for their discerning palates, gave this dish rave reviews. They particularly loved the aromatic blend of garlic and herbs that permeated the flatbread, elevating our usual mealtime experience to something truly special. This dish has quickly become a staple in our household, perfect for everything from casual family dinners to more formal gatherings with friends. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a breeze to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Garlic Herb Flatbread with Hummus, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Creating this dish is straightforward, even for novice cooks. Begin by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic on the dough.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, and basil. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the flour. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide it into eight equal portions and roll each one into a ball. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a flat circle about 1/4 inch thick.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each flatbread on the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Serve warm with a generous spread of hummus on top.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe makes approximately 8 servings. Each serving contains about 200 calories, depending on the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time

The total preparation and cooking time for this Garlic Herb Flatbread with Hummus is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes time for the dough to rise, making it a relatively quick recipe considering the delicious homemade flatbread.

How to Serve

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • As an appetizer: Cut the flatbreads into smaller pieces and serve them on a platter with a bowl of hummus for dipping.
  • As a main course: Pair the flatbreads with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete, nutritious meal.
  • For breakfast: Top the flatbread with a poached egg and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a savory breakfast option.
  • As a snack: Enjoy a piece of flatbread with hummus as a satisfying afternoon snack.
  • For a picnic: Pack the flatbreads and hummus in your picnic basket for a delicious outdoor meal.

Additional Tips

To ensure the best results with this recipe, consider the following tips:

  1. Use fresh herbs if possible: Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor even more, though dried herbs work well too.
  2. Experiment with different herb combinations: Customize the flavor profile by trying other herbs and spices you enjoy.
  3. Make your hummus: Homemade hummus can be tastier and allows for control over the ingredients and flavors.
  4. Use a pizza stone: For an extra crispy flatbread, consider cooking it on a preheated pizza stone in the oven.
  5. Freeze for later: These flatbreads freeze well, so make a double batch and save some for a quick meal in the future.

FAQ

Here are some common questions regarding this recipe:

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. You may want to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.

Q: How do I store leftover flatbread?

A: Store any leftover flatbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them well and freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I add toppings to the flatbread?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like olives, sliced tomatoes, or caramelized onions before cooking them on the skillet.

Q: Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

A: You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. However, results may vary, and the texture will differ from traditional flatbread.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?

A: Yes, the dough can be made a day in advance. After kneading, cover it tightly and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature and rise before rolling out.

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