There’s something truly irresistible about warm flatbread straight from the pan, brushed generously with garlic butter, and served alongside your favorite dish. Flatbread is one of the oldest types of bread in the world, dating back thousands of years, and it has been prepared in countless cultures—from Indian naan to Middle Eastern pita to Italian piadina. Today, we’ll focus on a simple and comforting version: a soft, homemade garlic and butter flatbread that requires just a few pantry staples and can be made without an oven.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings with friends, or as a snack on its own. It’s versatile, forgiving, and delicious. Even if you’re new to breadmaking, don’t worry—the process is straightforward and rewarding.
Ingredients
For the dough:
* 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 teaspoons sugar
* 2 teaspoons instant yeast (or 1 packet active dry yeast)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
* ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water (not hot, about 105–110°F)
For the garlic butter topping:
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
* Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the dough
1. In a medium bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step activates the yeast and ensures your flatbread will rise slightly.
2. Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. You want a soft but not sticky dough.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rest for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Make the garlic butter
While the dough is rising, prepare the garlic butter. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not let it brown). Stir in the chopped parsley and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Shape the flatbreads
1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release excess air.
2. Divide the dough into 6–8 equal pieces, depending on how large you want the flatbreads.
3. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it with a rolling pin or your hands into a round or oval shape, about ¼-inch thick.
Step 4: Cook the flatbreads
1. Heat a cast-iron skillet or nonstick pan over medium-high heat until hot.
2. Place one flatbread in the pan and cook for 1–2 minutes, until bubbles form and the underside develops golden brown spots.
3. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes on the other side.
4. Remove from the pan and immediately brush with garlic butter while still warm.
5. Repeat with the remaining pieces of dough.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Stack the flatbreads on a plate and cover with a clean towel to keep them warm. Serve them immediately with your favorite meal or dip.
Flavor and Texture
These garlic and butter flatbreads are soft, pillowy, and slightly chewy, with a golden crust that adds just the right amount of crispness. The garlic butter seeps into the warm bread, making every bite fragrant and flavorful. The parsley adds a touch of freshness, balancing the richness of the butter.
Unlike oven-baked breads, these flatbreads cook quickly on the stovetop, which keeps them tender and perfect for tearing and dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic and butter flatbread is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways you can serve it:
* **With Soups and Stews:** Tear off pieces and dunk them into hearty soups like tomato basil, chicken noodle, or lentil stew.
* **As a Pizza Base:** Spread tomato sauce and cheese on top, then broil for a few minutes for an instant personal pizza.
* **With Curries:** Flatbread pairs wonderfully with Indian curries like butter chicken, chickpea masala, or spinach paneer.
* **As a Wrap:** Use the flatbread as a wrap for grilled meats, falafel, or roasted vegetables.
* **Snack with Dip:** Serve with hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush for a light appetizer.
Variations
1. **Cheesy Garlic Flatbread:** Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan over the flatbread right after brushing with garlic butter.
2. **Herb Flatbread:**
