Posted inBlogs Foods Recipes

Tasty Lentil Bread Recipe

Tasty Lentil Bread Recipe

Introduction

When you think of bread, you might picture loaves of crusty wheat  flour, the aroma filling a bakery. But what if you could make a bread that’s naturally gluten-free, packed with protein and fiber, and incredibly delicious?

Tasty Lentil Bread is exactly that — a wholesome, hearty bread made primarily from lentils. It’s moist, savory, and adaptable. Whether you’re looking for a new healthy bread, want to impress guests with something different, or are simply avoiding gluten, this recipe is a game-changer.

Let’s dive deep into this simple yet delightful recipe!

🛒 Ingredients

This recipe yields one medium loaf (about 8–10 slices).

For the Bread:

  • 1½ cups red lentils (dry, uncooked)

  • 2 cups water (for soaking lentils)

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing)

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

Optional Add-ins:

  • ½ cup grated carrots or zucchini (moisture squeezed out)

  • ¼ cup chopped herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil

  • ¼ cup grated cheese (cheddar or parmesan work wonderfully)

Equipment Needed

  • Blender or food processor

  • Mixing bowl

  • 9×5-inch loaf pan

  • Parchment paper

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Spatula

🕐 Timeline Overview

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours soaking)

  • Cook Time: 40–45 minutes

  • Cooling Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: About 3 hours

  • Difficulty: Easy

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Lentils

Start by rinsing the lentils thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris or dust. Place the rinsed lentils into a large bowl and cover with 2 cups of water.

Let them soak for at least 2 hours — or overnight if possible. This softens the lentils, making them easier to blend and improving the bread’s texture.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, a quick soak in very warm water for 30 minutes can work, but overnight soaking gives the best results.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep

When ready to bake:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Blend the Batter

Drain the soaked lentils thoroughly (do not cook them).

In a blender or food processor:

  • Add the drained lentils, eggs, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and all the spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, paprika).

  • Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and thick — similar to a thick pancake batter.

Important: Pause and scrape down the sides a few times to ensure everything blends evenly.

If the batter looks too thick to blend, add a tablespoon or two of water — but be careful not to make it runny.

Step 4: Add the Leavening and Extras

Once your batter is smooth:

  1. Add baking powder and baking soda.

  2. Pulse gently just until mixed.

If you want to include extras like grated vegetables, chopped herbs, or cheese, fold them in by hand using a spatula.

These additions add flavor, moisture, and little bursts of color throughout the bread.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until:

  • A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  • The top is golden and slightly cracked.

Tip: Every oven varies slightly — start checking at 40 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, lightly cover with foil.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Once baked:

  1. Remove the bread from the oven.

  2. Let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.

  3. Then lift it out (using parchment paper if lined) and place on a wire rack to cool completely.

Resist slicing while hot — lentil bread sets up fully as it cools and slicing too early can cause it to crumble.

🥡 How to Serve

Tasty Lentil Bread is as versatile as it is nutritious!

Here are some ideas:

  • Toasted with butter for breakfast

  • Avocado toast — top with mashed avocado, salt, and chili flakes

  • Savory sandwiches — filled with hummus, grilled veggies, or turkey

  • Side with  soup — pairs beautifully with tomato or lentil soup

  • Topped with herbed cream cheese or soft goat cheese for a fancy snack

🔥 Tips for Perfect Lentil Bread

  • Use red lentils: They blend smoother and bake softer than green or brown varieties.

  • Blend thoroughly: A completely smooth batter = a better textured bread.

  • Customize flavors: Add curry powder, rosemary, or sun-dried tomatoes for flavor twists.

  • Store properly: Keep the bread tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze slices for easy grab-and-go meals.

🧠 Nutritional Benefits

Tasty Lentil Bread is a powerhouse of nutrition:

  • High in protein: Great for vegetarians and vegans (if you substitute flax eggs).

  • Rich in fiber: Supports digestion and helps you feel full.

  • Low glycemic: Lentils release sugars slowly, avoiding energy spikes.

  • Gluten-free: Ideal for those with gluten sensitivities.

  • Packed with micronutrients: Iron, magnesium, folate, and potassium.