Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Middle Eastern culinary paradise with this mouthwatering Spicy Red Onion Flatbread recipe! Imagine biting into a perfectly crisp, golden flatbread topped with caramelized red onions and a tantalizing kick of chili flakes that will send your senses on an unforgettable flavor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a curious food enthusiast, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and impress everyone at your table with its irresistible combination of textures and bold, aromatic flavors.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 flatbreads
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (e.g., thyme or rosemary)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and gradually add warm water and olive oil. Knead the mixture into a smooth, elastic dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
- While the dough rests, prepare the red onion topping. Thinly slice the red onion into delicate rings or half-rings.
- Sprinkle the sliced red onions with chili flakes and chopped fresh herbs, gently massaging the seasonings into the onions to enhance flavor absorption.
- Divide the rested dough into 4 equal portions and roll each portion into a thin, oval or round shape using a rolling pin on a lightly floured surface.
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. If using an oven, preheat to 450°F (230°C).
- Carefully transfer each rolled flatbread onto the hot skillet or baking sheet. Immediately top with the seasoned red onion mixture, spreading evenly.
- Cook each flatbread for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, with the onions slightly caramelized.
- Remove from heat and brush with additional olive oil if desired. Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
Tips
- Dough Perfection: The key to amazing flatbread is in the kneading. Take your time to develop a smooth, elastic dough - about 8-10 minutes of kneading will create the ideal texture.
- Resting is Crucial: Don't skip the 15-minute dough rest. This allows the gluten to relax, making your flatbread more tender and easier to roll out.
- Heat Management: Use a cast-iron skillet or griddle for the best heat distribution and crispy results. If using an oven, ensure it's preheated to the full 450°F for that perfect golden crust.
- Onion Prep Tip: Massage the chili flakes and herbs into the sliced onions before topping the flatbread. This helps the flavors penetrate deeply and creates a more intense taste experience.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve these flatbreads immediately while they're hot and crispy. They're perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal when paired with a fresh salad or yogurt dip.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg