Homemade Absolutely Gluten Free Flatbread Original Recipe: A Healthier Twist On A Classic Favorite

Category: Flatbread

Introduction

Absolutely Gluten Free Flatbread Original has become a staple in many households, especially for those who follow a gluten-free diet. This thin, crisp, and subtly seasoned flatbread is perfect for snacking, serving with dips, or using as a base for mini pizzas. However, store-bought options can sometimes fall short in terms of flavor and nutritional value. Making your own version at home allows you to customize the ingredients, reduce sodium and sugar content, and enjoy a fresher, tastier product.

The original Absolutely Gluten Free Flatbread is known for its delicate texture and light flavor, making it a versatile option for various culinary applications. By recreating it at home, you can ensure that the ingredients are fresh, wholesome, and aligned with your dietary preferences. Plus, homemade flatbread is often more cost-effective and allows for creative experimentation with flavors.

Personal Anecdote

I remember first trying Absolutely Gluten Free Flatbread at a friend’s gathering. It was served with a creamy hummus, and I was immediately impressed by its crunch and subtle seasoning. However, when I checked the ingredient list, I noticed it contained some preservatives and a higher sodium content than I preferred. This sparked my journey to create a homemade version that retained the same delicious texture and flavor but with cleaner, healthier ingredients. After several trials and tweaks, I landed on this recipe, which has since become a favorite in my household.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:15 minutes
• **Total Time:30 minutes
• **Yield:8-10 flatbreads (depending on size)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240g) gluten-free all-purpose flour (see notes for blend suggestions)
• 1/2 cup (60g) potato starch
• 1/4 cup (30g) tapioca flour
• 1 tsp (5g) baking powder (ensure it’s gluten-free)
• 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) black pepper
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
• 1 tbsp (15g) apple cider vinegar
• 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional, for egg wash)

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, potato starch, tapioca flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using).

• Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the olive oil, warm water, and apple cider vinegar. Mix until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but hold together well. If it’s too dry, add a little more water. If it’s too wet, add a small amount of gluten-free flour.

• Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 2 minutes until smooth and pliable. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flours to hydrate.

• Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions, depending on how large you want your flatbreads to be. Roll each portion into a ball and place it on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll each ball into a thin circle, about 1/16 inch (1.5mm) thick. If the dough is too elastic, you can roll it between two sheets of parchment paper.

• Bake: Place the rolled-out flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) of space between each. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg for a golden finish, if desired.

• Bake Until Crisp: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the flatbreads are crisp. Keep an eye on them after 10 minutes, as they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly.

• Cool: Allow the flatbreads to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

• Herb-Infused Version: Mix in some dried or fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the dry ingredients for a flavorful twist.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder to the dry ingredients for a spicy kick.
• Sesame Seed Version: Brush the tops with a little water and sprinkle with sesame seeds before baking for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Pro Tips

• Chill the Dough: If you find the dough too sticky or difficult to roll out, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to firm up before proceeding.
• Use the Right Rolling Technique: To achieve the thin, crisp texture, roll the dough out evenly and consistently. If the dough starts to shrink back, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing.
• Watch the Temperature: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, as this will affect the baking time and crispiness of the flatbreads.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I make this recipe vegan?
  Yes! Simply omit the egg wash and ensure that the gluten-free flour blend you’re using is vegan-friendly. You can also replace the egg with a flax egg if needed for binding.

• What if my flatbreads turn out too soft?
  This could be due to underbaking or using too much water in the dough. Try baking them for a few more minutes and ensure the dough isn’t overly hydrated.

• Can I store these flatbreads for later?
  Yes! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. Re-crisp them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes before serving.

• Can I use different types of flour?
  While the recipe works best with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, you can experiment with other combinations. However, ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or guar gum for better texture.

• Are these flatbreads suitable for sandwiches?
  Absolutely! They make great wraps or bases for mini sandwiches. For a sturdier version, bake them for an extra 2-3 minutes to make them crisper.

Serving Suggestions

• Dip Companion: Serve with hummus, guacamole, salsa, or tzatziki for a quick and easy snack.
• Mini Pizzas: Top with tomato sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings for a quick and fun meal.
• Crackers: Break into pieces and use as croutons in salads or as a crunchy snack on its own.
• Wrap: Use as a wrap for sandwiches, falafel, or grilled vegetables.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Absolutely Gluten Free Flatbread Original offers a healthier, tastier alternative to store-bought options. With fewer preservatives, lower sodium, and the freedom to customize, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves flatbread. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, using it as a base for meals, or sharing it with friends, this homemade flatbread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious and wholesome from scratch!