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

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center and add the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. 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

1. Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil.
2. Season: Blend until smooth, adding a bit of water if necessary to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Garnish: Optionally, fold in chopped parsley or cilantro for added flavor and freshness.

STEP 3: SHAPE THE BREAD

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 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.
3. 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

1. 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.
2. Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

STEP 5: SERVE

1. Slice and Spread: Slice the bread and spread the chickpea mixture generously on each slice.
2. Enjoy: Serve as an open-faced sandwich, or enjoy the bread and spread on their own.