Soft Fluffy Bread with Chickpea Spread

To get started on this delightful journey, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Bread:

400 ml warm water
200 ml warm milk
2 teaspoons (10 g) sugar
2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
2 teaspoons (8 g) yeast
850 g all-purpose flour
150 g soft butter

For the Chickpea Spread:

1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Olive oil (optional)

Directions

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation:

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with the vegetable oil.
Step 3: Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then add the soft butter and knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
Step 5: While the dough rises, prepare the chickpea spread. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil if desired for creaminess.
Step 6: After the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan or shape into rolls on a baking sheet.
Step 7: Cover again and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Step 8: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 9: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve it warm with chickpea spread.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can, but the texture will be slightly denser. You may need to adjust the liquid amount due to the higher absorption of whole wheat flour.

2. How long can I store the bread?

The bread can be stored at room temperature for up to three days wrapped in plastic or in a breadbox. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

3. Can I add herbs or spices to the bread dough?

Definitely! Adding herbs like rosemary or spices like garlic powder can enhance the flavor of the bread.

4. Is chickpea spread suitable for vegans?

Yes, all the ingredients in the chickpea spread are plant-based, making it an excellent vegan choice.

5. Can I make this bread gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture will differ from traditional bread.

Conclusion

This soft fluffy bread paired with chickpea spread is a delightful dish that brings together textures and flavors while offering a nutritious option for meals. Whether served as part of a layered sandwich or as a dip for veggies, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfies cravings while being easy to prepare. Try it out today and enjoy a taste of homemade goodness!

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