Why You’ll Love Homemade Mediterranean Flatbread Recipe
This Mediterranean flatbread recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings. It’s quick to make, soft on the inside, and slightly crispy on the outside. The recipe includes Mediterranean-inspired seasonings like olive oil, garlic, and herbs that make this bread stand out. It’s also incredibly versatile, pairing well with hummus, tzatziki, grilled meats, or served as a side with salads and more. You can easily adjust the toppings and flavors, making it suitable for various meals. Plus, the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house is hard to beat!
Ingredients
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1 tablespoon active dry yeast
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¾ cup warm water
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2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
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Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
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Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, oregano, and rosemary (if using). Add the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients, then stir until a dough begins to form.
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Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour as needed.
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Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
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Shape the flatbread: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten into a round or oval shape, about ¼ inch thick.
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Cook the flatbread: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with olive oil. Cook each flatbread for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
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Optional finishing touches: Once cooked, brush the flatbreads with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor and garnish.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: This recipe makes 4 medium-sized flatbreads.
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Preparation time: 10 minutes
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Rising time: 1 hour
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Cooking time: 2-3 minutes per flatbread
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Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Variations
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Add cheese: Sprinkle some feta or mozzarella cheese on the dough before baking for a cheesy twist.
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Flavored flatbread: Add more herbs like thyme, basil, or dill into the dough for a different flavor profile.
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Garlic and butter: Brush the flatbread with a garlic butter mixture (melted butter with minced garlic) after cooking for an even richer flavor.
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Whole wheat version: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier, healthier flatbread.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Allow the flatbread to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, wrap the flatbreads in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to a week.
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Freezing: You can freeze the flatbread for up to 3 months. Simply wrap each flatbread in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
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Reheating: Reheat flatbread in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes on each side or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour as a substitute, but the texture might vary slightly. Whole wheat flour will make the flatbread denser, while gluten-free flour will result in a lighter, more delicate texture.
2. Can I make this flatbread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After it rises, cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and cooking.
3. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast. Just make sure to activate it in warm water with sugar before mixing it into the dough, as described in the recipe.
4. Is it necessary to use olive oil?
While olive oil adds flavor, you can use another type of oil like vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer.
5. Can I bake the flatbread in the oven instead of cooking it on the stove?
Yes, you can bake the flatbreads at 400°F (200°C) for about 7-10 minutes or until they are golden brown.
6. How do I get the perfect soft texture for this flatbread?
Make sure not to overcook the flatbread. Cooking it just long enough to get it golden and slightly crispy on the outside will keep the inside soft and tender.
7. Can I add toppings before baking?
Yes, you can top the dough with ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs before baking for an extra flavor boost.
8. How can I make the flatbread crispy?
To make the flatbread crispy, cook it on medium-high heat for a shorter amount of time, which allows the outside to crisp up while keeping the inside soft.
9. Can I use a different cooking method besides a skillet?
Yes, you can cook the flatbread on a griddle, or if you’re baking, use a pizza stone in the oven to achieve a similar crispy texture.
10. Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan since it contains no animal products. You can even use dairy-free butter if you’re aiming for a fully vegan version.
Conclusion
This homemade Mediterranean flatbread is a versatile and delicious addition to your meal repertoire. With a soft, pillowy texture and Mediterranean flavors infused throughout, it’s perfect for dipping, serving with meals, or even enjoying on its own. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with toppings and variations, this flatbread is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!
Homemade Mediterranean Flatbread
Make this easy, soft, and flavorful Homemade Mediterranean Flatbread, perfect for dipping or serving with your favorite Mediterranean dishes. Made with simple ingredients like olive oil, herbs, and a touch of sea salt, it’s the perfect addition to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 flatbreads
- Category: Bread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, oregano, and garlic powder. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the flatbreads: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Punch the dough down, then divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten each into a disc about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cook the flatbread: Brush the skillet with a small amount of olive oil. Place one of the dough discs onto the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown spots appear. Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Finish and serve: Brush the warm flatbread with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite Mediterranean dips or dishes.
Notes
- You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- If you prefer a thicker flatbread, roll the dough out less thinly.
- Store leftover flatbread in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
