Healthy Lentil Bread Recipe

Healthy Lentil Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups green or brown lentils (cooked, drained well)

• 2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour)

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)

• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

• 1 ½ tsp salt

• 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 ¼ tsp)

• 1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

• 2 tbsp flaxseed or chia seeds (optional for extra fiber)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Lentils:

   • Cook the lentils according to package instructions, drain them well, and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare Yeast Mixture:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In a separate bowl, combine whole wheat flour (or oat flour), rolled oats, flaxseed or chia seeds (if using), and salt.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients:

   • Add the cooked lentils, olive oil (or melted butter), and honey/maple syrup (if using) into the yeast mixture.

5. Form the Dough:

   • Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir until a dough forms. You may need to add a little extra warm water if the dough feels too dry.

6. Knead:

   • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

7. First Proofing:

   • Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

8. Shape the Dough:

   • Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it into a greased loaf pan.

9. Second Proofing:

   • Cover the loaf pan with a damp cloth and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.

10. Bake:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, place it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

11. Cool:

    • Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Description:

This Healthy Lentil Bread is a nutrient-packed alternative to traditional bread. By using lentils as a key ingredient, you get a boost of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. It’s perfect for those looking to make a healthier choice without compromising on taste or texture. The bread is dense, hearty, and slightly nutty, making it a great choice for sandwiches or as a side to your meals.

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Notes:

• You can substitute honey or maple syrup with a sugar substitute if you prefer a lower-sugar option.

• If you’re looking to make the bread vegan, simply use maple syrup and skip the butter, opting for olive oil instead.

• If you don’t have instant yeast, you can use active dry yeast. Just dissolve it in warm water first before proceeding.

Tips:

• Ensure that the lentils are drained very well to avoid excess moisture in the dough.

• If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can toast the oats before adding them to the dough.

Servings:

• Makes 1 loaf (about 12 slices).

Nutritional Info (per slice):

• Calories: ~120 kcal

• Carbs: 20g

• Protein: 5g

• Fat: 3g

• Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

• High in Protein: Lentils provide a great plant-based source of protein.

• Rich in Fiber: The combination of lentils, oats, and flaxseed makes this bread an excellent source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestion.

• Low in Sugar: With a minimal amount of sweetener used, this bread is great for those monitoring sugar intake.

Q/A for Healthy Lentil Bread:

Q: Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use a bread machine to make this bread. Just add the ingredients in the order recommended for your bread machine, and follow the machine’s baking instructions.

Q: How can I store leftover bread?
A: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it for up to 3 months.