Flatbreads are tender breads that originate from the Middle East. In contrast to leavened bread, like sourdough bread, the baking process for flatbreads almost never includes the use of yeast or a raising agent. This is how flatbreads get their typical shape and thickness of a few millimetres to a few centimetres. In addition, flatbreads aren't baked in an oven but cooked on a plate or in a pan. There are over 10 different types of flatbread. We explain all.
Exploring the flatbread trend
Types of flatbread
There are many different types of flatbread, each with their own unique characteristics and flavours.
Naan bread
Naan is a classic Indian flatbread. This soft, airy bread is traditionally baked in a tandoor oven, which gives it its distinctive smoky flavour and a beautiful, fluffy texture. Naan dough often contains yoghurt, which helps give the bread its lightness and softness. Naan bread is a versatile side dish for various curries and stews. Naan can also be filled with ingredients like garlic, coriander or cheese. You can serve it filled with a mix of melted cheese, fresh herbs and a pinch of chilli for a spicy twist. The ideal accompaniment to a chicken korma.
Pita bread
Pita bread, which originates from the Middle East, is a versatile flatbread that has a pocket in the middle, created through the baking process. This pocket makes pita bread perfect for filling with different ingredients. It's often consumed with traditional Middle Eastern delicacies like falafel or doner kebab. A classic recipe is pita bread with a mix of hummus, falafel, cucumber slices, tomato, coriander and a drizzle of tahini. This is a healthy vegan meal that is rich in flavours and textures, meaning almost anyone can enjoy.
Tortillas
Tortillas originate from Mexico and are an essential part of Mexican cuisine. These thin, flexible breads are made from corn or wheat and are ideal for making wraps, burritos, enchiladas, tacos and much more. Tortillas can be eaten hot or cold and are perfect for filling with various ingredients like meat, vegetables and sauces. A popular recipe is a tortilla filled with seasoned beef, avocado, grated cheese, lettuce and a spicy salsa. Tortillas are also used to make quesadillas: fill your tortilla with cheese, meat or vegetables and grill them until the cheese has melted and they're nice and crispy. (Tip: fill them and cut them into bite-sized portions for your appetiser board)
Knäckebröd
Knäckebröd is a traditional Swedish bread known for its crispy, hard texture and long shelf life. This thin, crunchy bread is often eaten as a snack or as part of a light lunch. It can be topped with various ingredients like cheese or smoked salmon. Serve with simple but flavourful toppings like cream cheese, fresh herbs, such as dill, and a few slices of cucumber. A refreshing and light meal, perfect for brunch, lunch or as a savoury snack.
Focaccia
Focaccia is an Italian bread, which has a distinctive thick, airy structure and is topped with flavourful ingredients like olive oil, sea salt and herbs. You can use this versatile bread as a side dish, a base for a sandwich or just as a delicious snack. It's often flavoured with ingredients like rosemary, garlic and olives. Looking for a simple recipe? Top your focaccias with fresh rosemary and a generous dash of olive oil before baking. Serve with a glass of wine and a slice of parma ham for a simple, but divine Italian experience. (Tip: read more about Italian concepts)
Schiacciata
Schiacciata is a Tuscan flatbread that resembles a focaccia but is slightly thicker and airier. Schiacciatas are often flavoured with olive oil, sea salt and fresh herbs. This bread is perfect as a side dish with a meal or as the basis for a sandwich. A popular way to serve schiacciatas is topped with slices of tomato, mozzarella and basil. Bake until the cheese has melted and the crust is crispy. The perfect Italian snack or light meal.
Flammkuchen
Flammkuchen, also known as tarte flambée, originates from the Alsace region, i.e. France. It's a thin, crispy dough that is traditionally topped with cream, onion and bacon. This dish is a versatile option for a light meal or as a festive starter. The base dough of the flammkuchen is often flavoured with garlic and herbs and topped with onion and bacon. Flammkuchen is baked in an oven until it’s golden brown and crispy. Serve flammkuchen as a delicious starter with a light salad.
Papadums
Papadums are crispy, thin discs of dough from India, made with lentil or rice flour and therefore naturally gluten free. Papadums are often served as a side dish with Indian meals or as a snack with various dips and chutneys. You can roast or fry them for an extra crispy texture. Our favourite way to serve papadums is with a refreshing mango chutney and a creamy cucumber raita. This creates a delicious contrast of flavours and textures that pairs great with spicy Indian curries.
Lavash
Lavash is a thin and flexible flatbread that originates from the Caucus and the Middle East. It's often used as a basis for wraps or as a side dish with meals. Lavash has a soft, elastic texture and a mild flavour, which means it tastes great with a wide variety of fillings. Use lavash to make a wrap filled with grilled chicken, hummus, freshly chopped vegetables and some feta. It's a quick way to create a nutritious meal that is convenient for on the go.
Chapati (roti)
Chapati, also known as roti, is a kind of flatbread from India, made with wholegrain flour and cooked on a hot plate called a tawa. The bread has a light, airy texture and is often eaten as a side dish with curries, daal or vegetables. Chapatis are versatile and can be served with a little ghee (clarified butter) or as a wrap. Chapatis are often served with a spicy potato curry or a hearty lamb stew. An authentic Indian meal.
Swedish tunnbrod
Swedish tunnbrod is a thin, flexible bread from Sweden that is often used as a base for sandwiches or as a side dish with meals. It has a mild flavour and can be eaten with a variety of toppings like smoked salmon. A classic tunnbrod recipe consists of smoked salmon, dill and some sour cream. It's a deliciously fresh sandwich that's perfect for brunch, a light lunch or as a savoury snack.
Lawas
Lawas flatbread originates from Iran and Armenia and is a thin, light flatbread that is often used as a basis for wraps or as a side dish with meals. It has a soft texture and a mild flavour. Use lawas for a Mediterranean wrap, filled with grilled aubergine, hummus, feta and a handful of fresh herbs. An instant healthy and flavourful meal that's easy to make and goes with lots of different dishes.
Add LLBG's flatbreads to your range
Want to add flatbreads to your range? Take a look at the extensive range offered by La Lorraine Bakery Group. Each bread is prepared with love and passion by the LLBG chefs according to traditional methods.
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