Rustic Golden Chia Seed & Herb Flatbread

🌍 Cuisine: Mediterranean
🏷️ Category: Bread
⏱️ Prep: 15 minutes
🍳 Cook: 20-25 minutes
👥 Serves: 6 servings

📝 About This Recipe

This wholesome flatbread reimagines ancient grains and seeds into a modern, sugar-free staple that is both flexible and incredibly nutrient-dense. The chia seeds create a unique 'gel' that ensures a moist, pliable crumb without the need for added sugars or honey to activate the yeast. Infused with aromatic Mediterranean herbs and high-quality olive oil, it offers a savory, earthy flavor profile that elevates any meal while remaining perfectly keto-friendly and low-glycemic.

🥗 Ingredients

The Chia Base

  • 1/4 cup Whole Black Chia Seeds (provides structure and crunch)
  • 3/4 cup Warm Water (approximately 110°F/43°C)

Dry Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups Almond Flour (super-fine, blanched)
  • 1/4 cup Coconut Flour (sifted to remove lumps)
  • 2 tablespoons Psyllium Husk Powder (essential for the bread-like chew)
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (fine grain)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (crushed between palms)

Wet Ingredients & Toppings

  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (plus extra for brushing)
  • 1 teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar (helps with leavening)
  • 2 large Egg Whites (at room temperature)
  • 1 sprig Fresh Rosemary (finely chopped for topping)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt (for finishing)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with high-quality parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment with a drop of olive oil.

  2. 2

    In a small bowl, combine the chia seeds and warm water. Stir well and let it sit for about 10-12 minutes until a thick, gelatinous 'slurry' forms.

  3. 3

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, psyllium husk powder, baking powder, fine sea salt, garlic powder, and dried oregano until no lumps remain.

  4. 4

    Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the prepared chia gel, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and egg whites.

  5. 5

    Using a sturdy spatula, mix the ingredients until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes; this allows the coconut flour and psyllium to fully hydrate.

  6. 6

    Place the dough ball in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Place another piece of parchment paper over the top of the dough.

  7. 7

    Using a rolling pin or your hands, press the dough out into a large oval or rectangle, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking.

  8. 8

    Remove the top layer of parchment paper. Use your fingertips to create small dimples across the surface of the dough, similar to focaccia.

  9. 9

    Brush the surface lightly with extra olive oil and sprinkle the chopped fresh rosemary and flaky sea salt over the top.

  10. 10

    Bake in the center rack for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center feels firm to the touch.

  11. 11

    Slide the parchment onto a wire cooling rack. Allow the flatbread to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This is crucial as the structure sets while cooling.

  12. 12

    Slice into triangles or rectangles and serve warm.

💡 Chef's Tips

Ensure your psyllium husk is 'powder' not 'whole husks' for the best texture; if using husks, grind them in a spice mill first. If the dough is too sticky to handle, lightly oil your hands with olive oil instead of adding more flour. For a thinner, crispier 'cracker-style' flatbread, roll the dough to 1/8 inch and reduce baking time by 5 minutes. To store, wrap in a paper towel and place in an airtight container for 3 days, or freeze for up to a month. Reheat in a dry skillet or toaster oven to restore the crisp edges.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a bowl of homemade roasted red pepper hummus or baba ganoush. Use as a sugar-free base for a Mediterranean pizza topped with feta, olives, and spinach. Pair with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon and high-quality olive oil. Top with mashed avocado, red pepper flakes, and a poached egg for a gourmet breakfast. Serve as an accompaniment to a hearty shakshuka to soak up the spicy tomato sauce.