Craving homemade bread but don’t have an oven? No problem! This simple stovetop bread recipe is perfect for those moments when you want fresh, warm bread without needing to turn on the oven. Made with basic pantry ingredients, this method results in a soft, delicious bread with a golden crust, perfect for dipping, spreading, or serving alongside your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
Additional flour for dusting
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes frothy and bubbly. - Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir everything together using a wooden spoon or your hands until it starts to come together into a shaggy dough. - Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes. You want it to become smooth and elastic. Add extra flour sparingly if the dough sticks, but be cautious not to overdo it, as this can make the bread tough. - Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours. It should double in size. - Divide and Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each one into a ball. Then, flatten each ball slightly to form a disc. - Cook the Bread:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil. Place the dough discs on the skillet, leaving space between them. Cook each disc for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. - Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the bread from the skillet and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm stovetop bread with your favorite spreads, soups, or stews.
Tips for Success:
Add Flavor: For an extra kick, mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme, spices like garlic powder or cumin, or even some grated cheese into the dough before shaping. These additions can elevate your bread and pair well with different meals.
Preheat the Skillet: Make sure your skillet is fully heated before you start cooking the bread. This ensures an even, golden crust.
Check for Doneness: Bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you’re unsure, you can insert a toothpick in the center to check if it comes out clean.
Variations:
Whole Wheat Stovetop Bread: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, more nutritious bread. Just be aware that it may need a bit more water during the kneading process.
Garlic and Herb Bread: Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried mixed herbs and a minced garlic clove to the dough for a flavorful twist.
Cheesy Bread: Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan work well) for a cheesy, savory version.
How to Store Stovetop Bread:
Room Temperature:
Store your leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep it soft, you can wrap it in a clean kitchen towel before placing it in the container.
Freezing:
If you want to store the bread for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. The bread will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or reheat in a skillet for a few minutes.
FAQs:
- Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! You can substitute instant yeast in the same amount, but there’s no need to activate it in water first. Simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients and proceed with the recipe. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture may be slightly different. Be prepared to experiment with the water quantity, as gluten-free doughs can sometimes require adjustments. - How can I tell if my dough has risen enough?
A good way to check is by gently pressing your finger into the dough. If the indentation stays, the dough is ready for the next step. If it bounces back quickly, give it a little more time to rise. - Why is my bread dense?
If your bread turns out dense, it could be due to adding too much flour during kneading or not allowing the dough enough time to rise. Be sure to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place until it has doubled in size. - Can I cook this bread in the oven instead of on the stovetop?
Yes, you can bake this dough in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the shaped discs for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Enjoy the process of making this stovetop bread, and feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences!