Lentil Bread (Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, and Yeast-Free)

by

Lentil Bread (Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, and Yeast-Free)

Ingredients:

  • 200 g lentils (preferably green or brown lentils)

    • Provides the base for the bread and a healthy source of protein and fiber.

  • 30 ml olive oil

    • Adds moisture and richness to the bread.

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

    • Enhances the flavors of the lentils and other ingredients.

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

    • Helps the bread rise slightly, giving it a light texture.

  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds (optional, for topping)

    • Adds crunch and a nice visual touch on top of the bread.

  • Water as needed to blend the lentils

    • Helps achieve the right dough consistency.

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Lentils:

    • Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water.

    • Boil the lentils in a pot with enough water to cover them. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft. Drain any excess water and let them cool down slightly.

  2. Blend the Lentils:

    • In a blender or food processor, add the cooked lentils, olive oil, salt, and baking powder. Blend until smooth, adding water gradually to reach a thick, dough-like consistency. The dough should be thick enough to hold its shape but not too dry.

  3. Prepare the Baking Dish:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    • Grease a loaf pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bread later.

  4. Pour the Mixture into the Loaf Pan:

    • Transfer the blended lentil mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle some pumpkin seeds on top for extra crunch and decoration.

  5. Bake the Bread:

    • Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  6. Cool and Serve:

    • Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.

Benefits:

  • Gluten-Free: Made entirely from lentils, this bread is naturally free from gluten, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.

  • High in Protein and Fiber: Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, helping to keep you full and support digestion.

  • Sugar-Free: This bread is completely sugar-free, making it ideal for those on a low-sugar or ketogenic diet.

  • Quick and Simple: With just a few ingredients, this bread is easy to make and doesn’t require yeast or rising time.

Nutritional Info (Approximate per slice, based on 10 servings):

  • Calories: 120-140 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 20-22 g

  • Protein: 8-9 g

  • Fat: 5-6 g

  • Fiber: 6-7 g

  • Sodium: 200-250 mg

Tips:

  • Add Flavors: For added flavor, you can include herbs or spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried rosemary in the dough before baking.

  • Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

  • Make it Savory or Sweet: To make it savory, you can add diced vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the dough. For a sweeter version, add a small amount of honey or cinnamon.

  • Mixing the Dough: If you prefer a chunkier bread, you can leave the lentils slightly less blended for more texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A):

Q1: Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just make sure they are drained and rinsed well before blending.

Q2: Can I substitute the olive oil with another oil?
A2: Yes, you can substitute the olive oil with coconut oil or avocado oil if preferred.

Q3: Can I make this bread in a different shape or size?
A3: Absolutely! If you want to make smaller or larger loaves, adjust the baking time accordingly. Just ensure the bread is cooked through before serving.

Q4: How can I make this bread more fluffy?
A4: You can experiment with adding a small amount of baking soda in place of some of the baking powder, but because this bread is naturally dense, don’t expect it to be as airy as traditional wheat bread.

Leave a Comment