There is something truly magical about the marriage of flavors and textures in a well-prepared garlic herb flatbread served with creamy hummus. This delightful combination is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the senses. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked flatbread wafting through your kitchen, the subtle crunch of its golden crust giving way to the soft, herb-infused center. Pairing this with a luscious, homemade hummus creates a perfect harmony of flavors that is both comforting and exotic. My family has always been fond of Mediterranean cuisine, and this recipe has quickly become a staple at our dinner table. It’s not just about the delicious taste but also the joy of preparing it together, bringing everyone closer in the kitchen as we knead, chop, and blend. The satisfaction of seeing my loved ones enjoy something we’ve created together is unparalleled, and it’s moments like these that make food so special.
Ingredients
To recreate this delightful dish at home, you’ll need a selection of fresh and flavorful ingredients. For the garlic herb flatbread, gather the following items:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For the hummus, you will need:
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- 2 to 3 tablespoons water
- Pinch of paprika for garnish
Instructions
Creating this dish is a rewarding process that involves a few simple steps. Let’s start with the garlic herb flatbread:
Step 1: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with olive oil. Mix until a dough begins to form.
Step 3: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Step 4: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a flat, round shape.
Step 6: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and cook each flatbread for about 2–3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
For the hummus:
Step 1: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and salt. Process until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: If the hummus is too thick, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water to reach the desired consistency.
Step 3: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with paprika.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe serves four people, making it perfect for a family meal. Each serving of garlic herb flatbread with hummus contains approximately 400 calories. This makes it a hearty, satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or shared as an appetizer or snack.
Preparation Time
Preparing the garlic herb flatbread with hummus is a time investment that pays off in delicious rewards. The total time required for this recipe is about 1 hour and 45 minutes, including the time needed for the dough to rise. The hands-on time is approximately 30 minutes, making it manageable even on busy days.
How to Serve
Serving garlic herb flatbread with hummus can be as versatile as you like. Here are a few ideas to inspire your presentation:
- Appetizer Platter: Arrange slices of flatbread on a large platter with a bowl of hummus in the center. Add olives, sliced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
- Main Course: Serve the flatbread and hummus alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a light and healthy meal.
- Snack: Cut the flatbread into smaller pieces and serve with hummus as a satisfying snack for kids and adults alike.
- Brunch: Pair with a selection of cheeses and cured meats for a delightful brunch spread.
- Party Bites: Top the hummus with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes and serve as finger food at your next gathering.
Additional Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your garlic herb flatbread with hummus turns out perfectly every time:
- Tip 1: Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs will give your flatbread a vibrant taste.
- Tip 2: If you don’t have a food processor for the hummus, a blender can work as well. You might need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Tip 3: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cold, consider placing the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) to help it rise.
- Tip 4: To make the flatbread extra flavorful, brush it with garlic-infused olive oil immediately after cooking.
- Tip 5: Experiment with different seasonings in the hummus. Adding roasted red peppers or a bit of smoked paprika can give it a unique twist.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about garlic herb flatbread with hummus:
Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for the flatbread?
A1: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Keep in mind that the texture may be denser, and you might need to adjust the water content slightly.
Q2: How long can I store the flatbread and hummus?
A2: The flatbread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The hummus should be refrigerated and consumed within 5 days.
Q3: Can I freeze the flatbread dough?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before using, and allow it to rise again before cooking.
Q4: What can I use if I don’t have tahini for the hummus?
A4: If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of smooth, unsweetened peanut butter or omit it entirely. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Q5: How can I make the hummus spicier?
A5: To add a spicy kick to your hummus, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a slice of jalapeño during blending. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.