Discovering Delight in Every Slice: Vegan Gluten-Free Chickpea Bread
I've been on this journey of exploring more plant-based options for my meals, always on the lookout for recipes that are not just simple and delicious but also cater to a flexitarian lifestyle. I believe in the power of sharing what I discover, especially when it comes to making our diets a bit greener. Today, I want to share with you a recipe that has become a new favorite of mine: Vegan Gluten-Free Chickpea Bread.
Making bread can seem a bit daunting, especially when you're trying to keep it vegan and gluten-free, yet I've found this recipe to be surprisingly straightforward. It's made with chickpea flour, almond flour, and a few other ingredients you likely have in your pantry. The result is a moist, fluffy loaf that's not just tasty but also packed with nutrients.
Here's why I love it:
It's vegan and gluten-free, perfect for anyone looking to reduce their animal product intake and for those with gluten sensitivities.
The chickpeas add a lovely texture and make the bread quite filling and nutritious.
It's versatile! Enjoy it toasted with avocado, as a sandwich bread, or just by itself.
I also like to think about the health benefits of what I'm eating. This bread, with ingredients like chickpea flour and almond flour, is rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Plus, it's a sneaky way to get more legumes into my diet, which I'm always trying to do. Check out the details to make this delicious loaf!
Vegan Gluten-Free Chickpea Bread Recipe:
Ingredients:
1 cup chickpea flour (also known as garbanzo bean flour)
1/2 cup almond flour (for moisture and a bit of sweetness)
1/4 cup tapioca starch (to help with the fluffy texture)
2 teaspoons baking powder (make sure it's gluten-free)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (acts as an egg replacement, adding moisture without the eggs)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or any neutral oil)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (to react with the baking soda for rise)
1 teaspoon pure maple syrup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
1/2 cup cooked and mashed chickpeas (for added texture and moisture)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, almond flour, tapioca starch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Blend the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the almond milk, applesauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup (if using) until well combined. Add the mashed chickpeas and mix until evenly distributed.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This bread is best enjoyed when fully cooled, as it allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Creating this chickpea bread recipe not only yields a delicious loaf but also offers various health benefits due to its nutrient-dense ingredients. Below, I'll outline the nutritional facts, serving suggestions, recommended storage, and health benefits of the main ingredients.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, assuming 10 slices per loaf):
Calories: Approximately 150-170 kcal
Protein: 5-7 grams
Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
Fiber: 3-5 grams
Fat: 5-7 grams
Sugar: 1-3 grams
Note: These values are estimated based on the ingredients used and may vary.
Serving Suggestions:
Toast it: Serve it toasted with a spread of avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper.
Sandwich Bread: Use it as a base for sandwiches or open-faced toast with hummus, fresh vegetables, or your favorite vegan spreads.
Breakfast Option: Pair it with a side of fruit and nut butter for a balanced breakfast.
Recommended Storage:
Room Temperature: Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days for longer freshness. Wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: Slice the bread before freezing and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.
Health Benefits of Ingredients:
Chickpea Flour: Rich in protein, fiber, and minerals like iron and magnesium. Chickpea flour is gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Almond Flour: High in vitamin E and magnesium, almond flour is also a good source of healthy fats, which can help in maintaining heart health.
Tapioca Starch: A good alternative for gluten-free baking, providing a chewy texture and helping in the structure of the bread.
Applesauce: Acts as a natural sweetener and provides moisture without the need for extra fats. It's also a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
Olive Oil: Contains monounsaturated fats, known to support heart health. It's also rich in antioxidants.
Almond Milk: A dairy-free alternative rich in vitamin D and calcium (when fortified), important for bone health.
Apple Cider Vinegar: May help improve digestion and lower blood sugar levels.
This chickpea bread combines the nutritional benefits of legumes, nuts, and other plant-based ingredients, making it a hearty and healthy addition to your diet. Whether you're gluten-free, vegan, or simply looking to add more nutritious options to your meals, this bread meets various dietary needs while providing essential nutrients.
Creating and sharing recipes like this one is how I help others find new ways to include more plant-based foods in their diets. It's about making small changes that add up to a big impact on our health and the planet. Until next time, keep it simple, delicious, and plant-forward.
Disclaimer: The insights and recipes shared here come from personal experience and research, not from a medical or nutritional expert. For any dietary or health modifications, please consult a healthcare professional. Embrace this information as part of your wellness journey.
