Jamie Oliver’s flatbread with yogurt is a simple, quick bread recipe that yields soft, fluffy flatbreads with minimal effort. The addition of yogurt keeps the dough tender and moist, making it perfect for wraps, dips, or alongside curries and salads. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to make fresh, flavorful flatbread without yeast or long rising times.
Ingredients
- 250g plain flour (all-purpose flour)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 150g natural yogurt (full-fat Greek or plain yogurt works best)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
- Water, as needed (about 2-3 tbsp)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt.
- Add the natural yogurt and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Using your hands or a spoon, start mixing to bring the dough together.
- If the dough feels too stiff or crumbly, add water one tablespoon at a time until a soft, pliable dough forms. It should not be sticky but should hold together well.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 2-3 minutes until smooth and elastic. Avoid over-kneading, which can make the bread tough.
- Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Let them rest for 10-15 minutes under a clean kitchen towel to relax the gluten and make rolling easier.
- Using a rolling pin, roll each ball into a flat circle about 15cm (6 inches) in diameter. Try to keep them even in thickness for uniform cooking.
- Heat a non-stick frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Brush a little olive oil onto the pan or directly on the flatbread.
- Cook each flatbread for 1-2 minutes on one side until bubbles start to form and the underside is golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula to encourage puffing.
- Remove cooked flatbreads from the pan and wrap them in a clean tea towel to keep warm and soft while you cook the remaining pieces.
- Serve warm with your choice of dips, spreads, or as a side to your main dishes.
Tips
- Flour choice: Plain flour works best, but you can substitute half with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just expect a slightly denser texture.
- Yogurt substitution: Use full-fat plain Greek yogurt for best texture, but natural yogurt or even a thick sour cream can work. Avoid flavored yogurts or those with added sugar.
- Resting the dough: Don’t skip the resting step. It helps relax the gluten, making the dough easier to roll and resulting in a softer flatbread.
- Cooking temperature: Make sure your pan is hot enough before cooking to get those nice golden spots and bubbles. Too low heat results in pale, chewy bread.
Serving Suggestions
This flatbread is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm alongside Middle Eastern dishes like hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki. It also pairs well with Indian curries, grilled meats, or as a base for wraps filled with roasted vegetables, falafel, or spiced chicken. For a quick snack, spread with garlic butter or brush with olive oil and sprinkle with za’atar or chili flakes.
Variations
To add variety, you can mix herbs like chopped rosemary, thyme, or coriander into the dough before cooking for extra aroma and flavor. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin powder can give a subtle smoky or earthy note. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated parmesan or crumbled feta on the flatbreads while cooking. You can also make mini-sized flatbreads for appetizers or use wholemeal flour for a heartier version.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover flatbreads in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, warm flatbreads in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30-60 seconds per side or wrap in foil and heat in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this flatbread without yogurt?
Yogurt is key to achieving the soft, tender texture in this recipe because it adds moisture and acidity that reacts with the baking powder. Without yogurt, you could substitute buttermilk or a mix of milk and lemon juice, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
This recipe uses plain wheat flour, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, you’d need to use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but results may vary, and you might need to add binders like xanthan gum to replicate the dough’s elasticity.
Why is my flatbread tough instead of soft?
Tough flatbread is usually caused by over-kneading or cooking on too low heat. Knead just until smooth and elastic, then rest the dough before rolling. Also, make sure your pan is hot enough to cook the breads quickly and evenly.
Can I add yeast to this recipe?
This recipe relies on baking powder for leavening, which makes it quick and easy without rising time. Adding yeast would require longer proofing and change the texture and flavor. If you prefer a yeasted flatbread, look for specific yeast-based recipes.
How do I know when the flatbread is cooked?
Look for golden brown spots and bubbles on both sides. The bread should feel soft and pliable, not doughy or raw inside. Cooking time is short, usually 1-2 minutes per side on a hot pan.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it wrapped in cling film for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out and cooking for best results.
Jamie Oliver’s flatbread with yogurt is a fantastic, quick bread recipe that combines simple ingredients with straightforward technique to produce soft, flavorful flatbreads. Whether you’re serving them with dips, using them as wraps, or accompanying a meal, they’re an easy homemade bread option that doesn’t require yeast or long waits. With a few handy tips and variations, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences, making it a versatile kitchen staple.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious flatbread as part of your regular cooking repertoire!
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