Flatbread. The word is what it sounds like, isn\u2019t it? Essentially, flatbreads are, well, flattened pieces of bread. And as we all know, bread is pretty fantastic by itself. In fact, it\u2019s one of my favorite things. But when you add toppings to that flatbread, that\u2019s when things start to get interesting\u2014and delicious.<\/p>\n
Flatbread itself is unleavened bread that\u2019s made with flour, water and salt and then rolled out (flattened) into dough. Some flatbreads contain yeast, but traditional flatbread does not; however, the combination of spices and oils that can be added to the dough are endless\u2014think olive oil, sesame oil, curry powder or chili powder. And flatbreads, technically speaking, run the gamut of breads\u2014things like tortillas, pita and even crepes can be grouped into the flatbread family.<\/p>\n
After the flatbread is seasoned to your liking and baked until it\u2019s crispy (which is my preference), that\u2019s when the fun begins. You can make your flatbread into a cousin of the classic pizza\u2014with tomato sauce and cheese\u2014or you can pile it high with vegetables, protein, whatever is appealing to you at the time.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s true that restaurants that specialize in flatbreads may be struggling right now\u2014the Urban Flats chain, for example, was not long for this world\u2014restaurants that serve flatbreads on their menus have seen an uptick in orders. The reason? Flatbreads are a lighter, but equally great and filling, alternative to heavier menu items, such as pasta with cream sauce or meat dishes. Plus, they tap into the trend of small plate dining\u2014they\u2019re easily shareable and they can easily be their own small meal or part of a bigger one. Flatbreads truly are one of the most versatile dishes on modern menus, and I couldn\u2019t be happier about this trend.<\/p>\n
Lately, when I don\u2019t have time to make my own flatbread, I\u2019ve been heading to Outback Steakhouse for its chicken artichoke flatbread, which is made up of grilled chicken, chopped spinach and artichokes, fresh-grated Parmesan cheese and a little drizzle of olive oil atop a crispy flatbread. It\u2019s delicious and easy and the perfect meal.<\/p>\n
What\u2019s your favorite flatbread variety?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Flatbread. The word is what it sounds like, isn\u2019t it? Essentially, flatbreads are, well, flattened pieces of bread. And as … <\/p>\n