Flatbreads are a staple in many cuisines and can be used for wraps, dipping, or as a side for meals. Simple to prepare and versatile in flavor, homemade flatbreads such as Turkish bread, chapati, naan, tortillas, and bhatura offer a delicious addition to your kitchen repertoire. This guide provides easy-to-follow recipes for five popular types of flatbread.
Turkish Bread
Turkish bread is soft and slightly chewy, perfect for sandwiches or dipping in soups.
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tsp dry yeast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
Tips for Turkish Bread:
- Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size for a soft texture.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown.
Chapati
Chapati is a thin, unleavened flatbread common in Indian cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp salt
Tips for Chapati:
- Roll dough thinly for soft, pliable flatbreads.
- Cook on a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side.
- Cover with a cloth to keep warm and soft.
Naan
Naan is a leavened Indian flatbread, often enriched with yogurt and olive oil.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
Tips for Naan:
- Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for fluffy bread.
- Brush with butter or ghee before baking or cooking for extra flavor.
- Optional: sprinkle with herbs, garlic, or sesame seeds.
Tortilla
Tortillas are soft, thin flatbreads that are ideal for wraps or tacos.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp salt
Tips for Tortillas:
- Roll the dough as thinly as possible for pliable wraps.
- Cook on a dry skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side.
- Stack and cover to keep warm and soft.
Bhatura (Fried Bread)
Bhatura is a fluffy, deep-fried Indian bread often served with chickpea curry (chole).
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tsp dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
Tips for Bhatura:
- Allow dough to rise before shaping to achieve puffiness.
- Heat oil to medium-high and fry until golden brown.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Baking and Cooking Tips
- Use warm water to activate yeast efficiently.
- Let the dough rest to improve elasticity and texture.
- Adjust thickness based on the desired type of flatbread.
- Experiment with herbs, spices, or seeds for extra flavor.
- Cover cooked flatbreads to retain softness until serving.
FAQ
Can I make these flatbreads gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose or wheat flour with gluten-free flour blends, but texture may vary slightly.
How long does flatbread dough last?
Dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Allow it to return to room temperature before baking.
Can I freeze cooked flatbreads?
Yes, stack flatbreads with parchment paper between each and freeze. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
Which flatbread is best for wraps?
Chapati and tortillas are ideal for wraps due to their thin, pliable texture.
Are these recipes suitable for beginners?
Yes, all recipes use simple ingredients and straightforward methods suitable for novice bakers.