Soft and Fluffy Bread with Chickpea Spread

 

Ingredients

FOR THE SOFT AND FLUFFY BREAD:

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Additional flour for dusting

FOR THE CHICKPEA SPREAD:

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons tahini

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: MAKE THE BREAD DOUGH

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.

Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center and add the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a dough begins to form.

Knead the Dough:Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

STEP 2: PREPARE THE CHICKPEA SPREAD

Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil.

Season: Blend until smooth, adding a bit of water if necessary to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish: Optionally, fold in chopped parsley or cilantro for added flavor and freshness.

STEP 3: SHAPE THE BREAD

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Shape Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller pieces for rolls.

Second Rise: Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

STEP 4: BAKE THE BREAD

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes for a loaf or 15-20 minutes for rolls, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

STEP 5: SERVE

Slice and Spread: Slice the bread and spread the chickpea mixture generously on each slice.

Enjoy: Serve as an open-faced sandwich, or enjoy the bread and spread on their own.