Pita Bread, Flat or Balloon Bread? Whatever you call it it’s the most easy bread ever! (no oven)
Balloon bread is a delightful and unique type of flatbread that puffs up dramatically during baking, creating a balloon-like shape. This bread is perfect for serving with butter, dips, or as an accompaniment to a meal. It’s light, fluffy, and has a slightly chewy texture that is sure to impress. Follow this simple recipe to create your own balloon bread at home.
Equipments
To make balloon bread, you will need:
- 1 Mixing bowl or large bowl
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 Kitchen scales
- 1 Measuring jug
- 1 Large non-stick skillet or griddle
- 1 Spatula
- Greaseproof or parchment paper cut to size
Ingredients
- Plain (All-Purpose) Flour: 325 grams
- Thick Natural Yoghurt: 60 millilitres
- Water: 125 millilitres
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Nigella Seeds: ½ teaspoon (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, add your flour and make a well in the center.
- Mix the water and yoghurt together in a measuring jug, then pour this mixture into the well along with the salt.
- Start bringing the dough mixture together with a spoon until you get some small clumps.
- Knead the Dough:
- Use your hands to bring the dough together, scooping up all the crumbly bits from the bottom of the bowl.
- Once you have a dough ball, place it onto a clean surface and knead for a few minutes until you have a moist, slightly sticky dough.
- Rest the Dough:
- Wrap the balloon bread dough in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for a minimum of 20 minutes to rest.
- Shape the Dough:
- Remove the dough ball from the fridge and divide it into 4 equal pieces.
- Place one piece of dough on a lightly floured surface and pat it down into a circular or rectangular shape.
- Dust the dough with a little flour and use your rolling pin to roll it thinly, until it is roughly 3 millimeters thick.
- Place your dough onto greaseproof paper and sprinkle with nigella seeds if using.
- Cook the Bread:
- Preheat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Carefully transfer the dough onto the hot skillet or griddle.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the dough puffs up and is golden brown with some charred spots.
- Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread to help it puff up evenly.
- Serve:
- Remove your balloon bread from the skillet and serve immediately with butter and dips.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Balloon bread is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in a skillet before serving.
Add-On Suggestions
- Herbs and Spices: Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or spices such as cumin to the dough for extra flavor.
- Seeds: In addition to nigella seeds, try using sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or flaxseeds for a different texture and taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly denser, and you may need to adjust the water content slightly.
Q: How can I ensure my bread puffs up properly? A: Make sure your skillet or griddle is preheated to medium-high heat, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook the bread one piece at a time if necessary.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and cooking.
Health Considerations
Balloon bread is a light and relatively low-fat bread option. You can adjust the salt content to fit your dietary needs and enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.
Balloon bread is a fun and impressive addition to any meal. Its light, airy texture and delightful puff make it a unique and tasty treat. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful bread with friends and family, all without needing an oven!
Balloon Bread Recipe With Oven
Balloon bread is a delightful and unique type of flatbread that puffs up dramatically during baking, creating a balloon-like shape. This bread is perfect for serving with butter, dips, or as an accompaniment to a meal. It’s light, fluffy, and has a slightly chewy texture that is sure to impress. Follow this simple recipe to create your own balloon bread at home.
Equipment
To make balloon bread, you will need:
- 1 Mixing bowl or large bowl
- 1 Baking sheet or oven tray
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 Kitchen scales
- 1 Measuring jug
- Greaseproof or parchment paper cut to size
Ingredients
- Plain (All-Purpose) Flour: 325 grams
- Thick Natural Yoghurt: 60 millilitres
- Water: 125 millilitres
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Nigella Seeds: ½ teaspoon (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, add your flour and make a well in the center.
- Mix the water and yoghurt together in a measuring jug, then pour this mixture into the well along with the salt.
- Start bringing the dough mixture together with a spoon until you get some small clumps.
- Knead the Dough:
- Use your hands to bring the dough together, scooping up all the crumbly bits from the bottom of the bowl.
- Once you have a dough ball, place it onto a clean surface and knead for a few minutes until you have a moist, slightly sticky dough.
- Rest the Dough:
- Wrap the balloon bread dough in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for a minimum of 20 minutes to rest.
- Meanwhile, preheat your oven to the hottest setting with your baking sheet inside.
- Shape the Dough:
- Remove the dough ball from the fridge and divide it into 4 equal pieces.
- Place one piece of dough on a lightly floured surface and pat it down into a circular or rectangular shape.
- Dust the dough with a little flour and use your rolling pin to roll it thinly, until it is roughly 3 millimeters thick.
- Place your dough onto greaseproof paper and sprinkle with nigella seeds if using.
- Bake the Bread:
- Remove the hot baking sheet from the oven and transfer the paper and dough onto the sheet.
- Place it in the bottom of your hot oven immediately.
- Watch as the dough starts to puff and balloon. Once it begins to color on top, it is cooked.
- Serve:
- Remove your balloon bread from the oven and serve immediately with butter and dips.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Balloon bread is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven before serving.
Add-On Suggestions
- Herbs and Spices: Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or spices such as cumin to the dough for extra flavor.
- Seeds: In addition to nigella seeds, try using sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or flaxseeds for a different texture and taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly denser, and you may need to adjust the water content slightly.
Q: How can I ensure my bread puffs up properly? A: Make sure your oven is preheated to the highest setting, and work quickly when transferring the dough to the hot baking sheet. This high heat is crucial for creating the steam that makes the bread puff up.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.
Health Considerations
Balloon bread is a light and relatively low-fat bread option. You can adjust the salt content to fit your dietary needs and enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.
Balloon bread is a fun and impressive addition to any meal. Its light, airy texture and delightful puff make it a unique and tasty treat. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful bread with friends and family!