Description: Indulge in a wholesome, flavorful bread alternative that’s naturally gluten-free, sugar-free, and requires no yeast. This lentil cheese bread combines the earthiness of lentils with the savory sharpness of Parmesan, creating a satisfying and nutritious loaf perfect for any occasion. It’s incredibly simple to make, boasting a moist, tender crumb and a delightful cheesy crust. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a healthy bread option or those with dietary restrictions, offering a delicious alternative to traditional wheat-based loaves.
Ingredients:
- 180 grams (1 cup) cooked lentils (green or brown lentils work best)
- 2 large eggs
- 100 grams (½ cup) plain yogurt (full-fat or Greek yogurt recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste, depending on the saltiness of your Parmesan)
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic (garlic powder can be substituted)
- 30 grams (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is preferred for best flavor)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (Italian flat-leaf parsley is ideal)
- 10 grams (2 teaspoons) baking powder (ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise)
- 20 ml (1 ½ tablespoons) olive oil (extra virgin olive oil recommended)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for sprinkling, optional but highly recommended)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare Your Lentils If you are not using pre-cooked lentils, begin by cooking them. Rinse 1/2 cup of dry lentils thoroughly. Place them in a saucepan with 1.5 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess water and let them cool slightly before using in the recipe. Ensure the lentils are not mushy, but cooked until soft. Slightly undercooked lentils will hinder the texture of the bread.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This consistent temperature is crucial for even baking and a well-risen loaf. Prepare your loaf pan. A standard 8×4 inch loaf pan works perfectly. You can either grease the pan liberally with olive oil to prevent sticking, or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Parchment paper is highly recommended for a hassle-free experience.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, yogurt, and olive oil until smooth and well combined. This ensures a homogeneous mixture that will evenly distribute the flavors and moisture throughout the bread. Make sure your yogurt is at room temperature for optimal blending. If the yogurt is cold, it could hinder the binding process.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients To the wet ingredients, add the cooked lentils, salt, dried garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and finely chopped fresh parsley. Stir well with a wooden spoon or spatula to incorporate everything evenly. Be careful not to overmix at this stage. Overmixing can develop the gluten, even in a gluten-free recipe (from possible cross-contamination), leading to a tougher bread.
Step 5: Incorporate Baking Powder Sprinkle the baking powder over the mixture. Gently fold the baking powder into the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix after adding the baking powder, as this can cause it to lose its potency and result in a flat bread. The baking powder is what provides the necessary lift for the bread to rise.
Step 6: Transfer to Pan and Garnish Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to smooth out the top, ensuring even distribution. Sprinkle the sesame seeds generously across the surface of the batter. Sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty aroma to the finished bread. You can also experiment with other toppings like poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Check the bread’s progress after about 35 minutes. If the top is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Step 8: Cool and Slice Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely in the loaf pan before slicing. This is crucial to prevent the bread from crumbling. It’s tempting to cut into it right away, but patience is key for a clean slice. After the bread has cooled in the pan, gently lift it out using the parchment paper overhang (if used), or by carefully loosening the edges with a knife.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Gluten-Free Lentil Cheese Bread is a game-changer for anyone seeking a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make bread alternative.
- It’s naturally gluten-free, sugar-free, and yeast-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
- It’s packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, providing a satisfying and nutritious meal or snack.
- The combination of savory Parmesan, aromatic garlic, and fresh parsley creates a complex and delicious flavor profile.
- It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring only a few basic ingredients and minimal effort.
- It’s versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways, from sandwiches and toast to appetizers and side dishes.
- It offers a delicious and wholesome alternative to traditional wheat-based bread, without sacrificing taste or texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a smear of cream cheese or ricotta.
- Use it to make delicious sandwiches with your favorite fillings.
- Toast it and top with avocado, tomato, and a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Cut it into cubes and serve with a cheese and charcuterie board.
- Pair it with soup or salad for a satisfying and complete meal.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs for a simple appetizer.
- Make crostini by slicing thinly, brushing with olive oil, and baking until crispy.
- Enjoy it plain as a healthy snack or side dish.
Tips:
- Use pre-cooked lentils to save time, or cook them in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in a tougher bread.
- Adjust the amount of salt to taste, depending on the saltiness of your Parmesan cheese.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
- If the bread is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freeze slices for longer storage.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 45-50 minutes Total Time: 60-65 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Per Slice – Approximate, Varies based on Slice Size and Ingredients) Calories: 150-180 Protein: 8-10 grams Sodium: 150-200 mg
Conclusion:
This Gluten-Free Lentil Cheese Bread is a culinary triumph, proving that healthy and delicious can coexist beautifully. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and incredible flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to expand their bread repertoire. Whether you’re gluten-free, sugar-free, or simply seeking a more nutritious and satisfying bread alternative, this lentil cheese bread is sure to become a new favorite. It’s a versatile loaf that can be enjoyed in countless ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Embrace the goodness of lentils and cheese and create a loaf that’s both nourishing and incredibly delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different types of lentils in this recipe?
- Yes, you can! Green or brown lentils are the most commonly used and recommended for their texture and flavor. Red lentils tend to break down more during cooking and may result in a denser bread. Black lentils, also known as beluga lentils, can also be used, adding a unique earthy flavor and visual appeal. Just ensure that whichever lentil you choose is cooked until tender but not mushy.
- Can I substitute the yogurt with something else?
- Yes, you can substitute the yogurt with an equal amount of sour cream, unsweetened applesauce, or even mashed avocado. Each substitution will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the bread. Sour cream will add a tangier flavor, applesauce will add a hint of sweetness and moisture, and mashed avocado will create a richer, more decadent loaf. Plant-based yogurts also work well, but choose a plain, unsweetened variety.
- Can I add other ingredients to the batter?
- Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile and lends itself well to additions. Consider adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or cheddar. Herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano can also be incorporated. Just be mindful not to add too many wet ingredients, as this can affect the texture of the bread.
- How do I store the leftover bread?
- To store leftover bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the bread for up to a week. To prevent the bread from drying out, consider slicing it before storing it in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the bread for up to 2 months. Wrap the slices individually or store them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Why is my bread dense and not rising properly?
- Several factors can contribute to a dense bread that doesn’t rise properly. First, ensure that your baking powder is fresh and active. Expired baking powder will not provide the necessary lift. Second, avoid overmixing the batter, especially after adding the baking powder. Overmixing can develop gluten (even in a gluten-free environment if there’s cross-contamination), resulting in a tougher bread. Third, make sure the oven temperature is accurate and consistent. An oven that is too cool can prevent the bread from rising properly. Finally, ensure your lentils are cooked properly but not mushy; overly wet lentils can also affect the bread’s texture.
