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There is something truly comforting about the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven. It fills the kitchen with warmth, signaling that something nourishing and delicious is on its way. For many of us, bread is more than just food—it’s tradition, it’s family, it’s the foundation of so many meals. But what if you could enjoy a loaf that is not only soft and satisfying but also gluten-free, high in protein, and packed with nutrients? That’s where Lentil Bread comes in.
My journey with lentil bread started when I was searching for an alternative to regular bread that could provide more protein and fiber without the need for wheat flour. I grew up in a home where lentils were a staple—my grandmother would cook them into hearty soups, stews, and even patties. But using them in bread? That was something I had never tried.
One day, inspired by the simplicity of whole-food ingredients, I decided to experiment. The result was a beautifully soft, slightly dense, and incredibly flavorful bread that felt as comforting as a traditional loaf but with a rich, earthy depth from the lentils. With the addition of yogurt for moisture, eggs for structure, and feta cheese for a salty, creamy contrast, this bread became an instant favorite.
Now, every time I bake it, I’m reminded that food doesn’t have to be complicated to be nourishing. It’s a bread that celebrates simplicity, health, and tradition—a wholesome staple for anyone looking for something different yet deeply satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Naturally Gluten-Free and High in Protein
Unlike traditional bread, this lentil bread is completely flour-free and made from red lentils, which are rich in plant-based protein and fiber.
2. Soft, Moist, and Packed with Flavor
Thanks to yogurt, eggs, and feta cheese, this bread has a soft texture with a slight tanginess and a hint of saltiness from the cheese.
3. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients
This recipe doesn’t require yeast or kneading, making it a quick and fuss-free alternative to traditional bread.
4. Perfect for a Healthy Diet
Rich in fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates, this bread is ideal for those looking to stay full longer while maintaining a balanced diet.
5. Versatile and Customizable
You can enjoy this bread plain, toasted, or paired with sweet or savory toppings—and even customize it with herbs, seeds, or different cheeses.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Red lentils | 2 cups (360g) |
Large eggs | 3 |
Olive oil | 50g (3½ tbsp) |
Yogurt | 1 glass (200g) |
Feta cheese | 125g (crumbled or cubed) |
Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | ½ teaspoon |
Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
Cumin (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
Directions
- Soak & Blend the Lentils – Rinse the red lentils and soak them in water for 2–3 hours. Drain and blend until smooth.
- Prepare the Batter – In a bowl, whisk eggs, yogurt, olive oil, baking powder, salt, and spices. Mix in the blended lentils and crumbled feta cheese.
- Bake to Perfection – Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until golden and firm.
- Cool & Serve – Let the bread cool before slicing. Serve warm with butter, hummus, or your favorite spread.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approx. 1 of 10 Servings)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 190 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 20 g |
Protein | 10 g |
Fat | 8 g |
Saturated Fat | 2.5 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sugar | 2 g |
Sodium | 220 mg |
Tips for the Perfect Lentil Bread
1. Soak the Lentils for a Smooth Texture
Red lentils need to be soaked for at least 2–3 hours before blending. This makes them soft enough to create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
2. Use a Blender or Food Processor
A good-quality blender or food processor is essential to break down the soaked lentils into a creamy batter without leaving any grainy texture.
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3. Don’t Skip the Yogurt
Yogurt helps keep the bread moist and tender while adding a slight tang that complements the lentils beautifully.
4. Crumble the Feta Evenly
If you want little bursts of salty, creamy cheese throughout the bread, make sure to evenly distribute the feta before baking.
5. Let the Bread Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, allow the bread to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing to ensure it holds its shape.
How to Enjoy Lentil Bread
This gluten-free lentil bread is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
1. Toasted with Butter or Olive Oil
Crisp up a slice and spread it with butter or a drizzle of olive oil for a simple yet satisfying snack.
2. Served with Hummus or Avocado
Pair it with hummus or mashed avocado for a high-protein, fiber-rich meal.
3. As a Base for Open-Faced Sandwiches
Top it with smoked salmon, cheese, or fresh vegetables for a healthy, nutrient-dense sandwich.
4. Alongside Soups and Stews
The heartiness of this bread makes it the perfect companion to warm, comforting soups and stews.
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5. Sweetened with Honey and Nuts
For a sweet twist, drizzle with honey and top with crushed nuts for a satisfying breakfast or dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils?
Red lentils are best for this recipe because they cook quickly and blend into a smooth batter. Green or brown lentils may result in a grainier texture.
Q: Do I need to cook the lentils before using them?
No, soaking them is enough! Cooking the lentils would make the batter too wet and affect the texture of the bread.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream and omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Q: How long does lentil bread last?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices and toast them when needed.
Q: Can I use this bread for sandwiches?
Yes! It holds up well for sandwiches, though it is slightly denser than regular bread. It works especially well for open-faced sandwiches.
Q: Can I add herbs or seeds?
Absolutely! Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil add great flavor. You can also mix in seeds like chia, flax, or sunflower seeds for extra texture and nutrients.
Q: Can I make this bread vegan?
Since eggs help bind the ingredients together, you would need a substitute like flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg). However, the texture may be slightly different.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat lentil bread?
For best results, reheat slices in the toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to regain their crispness.
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Why This Lentil Bread Deserves a Place in Your Kitchen
Few recipes bring together simplicity, nutrition, and deliciousness the way this Lentil Bread does. It’s a healthy, gluten-free alternative to traditional bread, yet it doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
✔ Naturally gluten-free and packed with plant-based protein
✔ Soft, moist, and flavorful with a slight tang from yogurt and feta
✔ No yeast, no kneading, and no complicated techniques
✔ Customizable with different flavors, herbs, or seeds
✔ Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or pairing with soups and dips
If you’re looking for a nutritious homemade bread that’s easy to make and filled with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is for you. Whether you’re following a gluten-free diet or simply looking for a more nourishing way to enjoy bread, this lentil bread will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Soak your lentils, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of hearty, protein-packed goodness!
PrintLentil Bread – A Gluten-Free Protein-Packed Delight
This Lentil Bread is a soft, hearty, and naturally gluten-free alternative to traditional bread. Made with protein-rich red lentils, creamy yogurt, and savory feta cheese, it’s packed with nutrients while remaining light and flavorful. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or served alongside soups and salads, this wholesome, flourless bread is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
For the Lentil Bread:
- 2 cups (360g) red lentils
- 3 large eggs
- 50g (3½ tbsp) olive oil
- 1 glass (200g) yogurt
- 125g feta cheese (crumbled or cubed)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cumin (optional)
Instructions
- Soak & Blend the Lentils – Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for 2–3 hours. Drain and blend until smooth.
- Prepare the Batter – In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, olive oil, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the blended lentils and crumbled feta.
- Bake the Bread – Pour the mixture into a greased loaf pan and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown and firm.
- Cool & Serve – Let the bread cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or toasted with your favorite spreads.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the batter.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the loaf for a few hours before slicing.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Delicious with hummus, avocado, or soft cheese for a satisfying snack.