Flatbread is one of the oldest and easiest breads to make, loved around the world for its soft texture, simple ingredients, and endless versatility. Whether served warm beside curries, soups, grilled meats, or used as a wrap for sandwiches, homemade flatbread is always a delicious addition to any meal.
This recipe creates soft, tender flatbreads with a lightly golden exterior and chewy center. Best of all, it requires no oven and can be cooked right on a skillet or frying pan. With just a few pantry staples, you can make fresh flatbread anytime.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rest Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Yield
- 8 flatbreads
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 cup warm water (more if needed)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (optional for softer bread)
- Extra flour for rolling
Optional Flavor Additions
- Minced garlic
- Chopped herbs
- Sesame seeds
- Chili flakes
- Butter for brushing after cooking
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Skillet or frying pan
- Clean towel
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder.
Add olive oil, warm water, and yogurt if using.
Mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and soft. Add a little more flour if sticky or a splash of water if dry.
Step 2: Rest the Dough
Cover the dough with a towel or plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes. This helps relax the gluten and makes rolling easier.
Step 3: Divide the Dough
Cut the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
Step 4: Roll Out
On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin circle or oval about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 5: Cook the Flatbread
Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat.
Place one rolled flatbread in the hot pan. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbles form and golden spots appear.
Flip and cook the other side for another 1 to 2 minutes.
Repeat with remaining dough.
Step 6: Keep Warm
Stack cooked flatbreads in a towel to keep them soft and warm.
Step 7: Serve
Brush with melted butter or garlic butter if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Approx. Per Flatbread)
- Calories: 190
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
Tips for Best Results
- Let dough rest for softer flatbread.
- Use yogurt for extra tenderness.
- Roll evenly for consistent cooking.
- Cook on a hot skillet for best bubbles and browning.
- Keep covered after cooking to stay soft.
Variations
Garlic Herb Flatbread
Brush with garlic butter and parsley.
Whole Wheat Version
Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.
Cheesy Flatbread
Sprinkle shredded cheese inside folded dough before rolling.
Spicy Flatbread
Add chili flakes to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Flatbread with:
- Curries
- Hummus
- Grilled chicken
- Soups
- Sandwich fillings
- Breakfast eggs
