Lavash Bread: The Perfect Thin Bread Recipe for Every Occasion

Bread is a common food in many homes, but not all varieties are the same. Enter lavash bread, a thin, soft flatbread that’s versatile and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re making wraps, or pizza, or simply enjoying it with olive oil and herbs, lavash bread is a fantastic choice. Today, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about lavash bread—how to make it, what makes it so special, and why it’s a must-try for any bread lover.

What is Lavash Bread?

Lavash bread is a traditional flatbread that originates from Armenia but is also popular across the Middle East and parts of Central Asia. Made with simple ingredients like flour, water, and salt, it’s known for its soft texture and thin, pliable form. It can be cooked in a tandoor (clay oven) or on a stovetop, making it accessible to home cooks everywhere.

Lavash Bread Recipe

Lavash Bread: The Perfect Thin Bread Recipe for Every Occasion

Print Recipe

Soft, versatile lavash bread perfect for wraps, pizzas, or as a side. Easy to make with simple ingredients, this recipe delivers delicious results every time!

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for a slightly sweeter bread)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

In a spacious mixing bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Slowly pour in the warm water and olive oil, mixing with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Work the dough on a floured surface for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Rest the Dough:

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for 30 minutes. This step helps relax the gluten, making the dough easier to roll out.

Roll the Dough:

After resting, cut the dough into 6 equal pieces. Using a rolling pin, roll each portion into a thin circle or oval, about 1/8-inch thick.

Cook the Lavash:

Get a large skillet or griddle ready on medium heat. Cook each piece of lavash for 1-2 minutes on each side, until bubbles form and the bread develops golden brown spots. For an extra crispy texture, cook a little longer.

Optional Toppings:

If desired, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on the dough before cooking. This adds a lovely crunch and flavor to the bread.

Serve Warm:

Enjoy your lavash bread fresh and warm. It pairs beautifully with dips like hummus or can be used as a wrap for sandwiches.

Notes

• For a gluten-free option, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• You can store cooked lavash bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Author: Amian
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Bread, Flatbread, Appetizer, Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 150kcal
• Sugar: 0.5g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Why You’ll Love This Lavash Bread Recipe

1. Quick and Easy:
   With just a few basic ingredients and a short cooking time, this lavash bread can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Versatile:
   Lavash bread can be used in a variety of dishes, from wraps to pizzas, and even as a side to soups and stews.
3. Healthier Alternative:
   Compared to store-bought bread, homemade lavash contains no preservatives and can be made with whole grains for a healthier option.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Flour: The main ingredient in lavash bread, all-purpose flour gives it a light texture. For a heartier version, try using whole wheat flour or a blend of different flours.
• Olive oil: This ingredient adds moisture and richness to the dough. You can substitute it with any neutral oil, such as vegetable or avocado oil.
• Warm Water: The water helps bind the dough together. Be sure it’s warm (not hot), as this will make the dough easier to knead.
• Optional Add-ins: For extra flavor, you can mix herbs like rosemary or thyme directly into the dough, or sprinkle garlic powder on top before cooking.

How to Make Lavash Bread (Step-by-Step)

1. Start with the Dough:
   The key to a perfect lavash bread is in the dough. Make sure to knead it thoroughly so it becomes smooth and elastic. This will give you that perfect, soft texture once cooked.
2. Let the Dough Rest:
   Giving the dough time to rest ensures it’s easier to roll out. If you skip this step, the dough may be too tough and springy.
3. Roll It Thin:
   The thinner you roll the dough, the crispier your lavash bread will be. For soft, pliable lavash (perfect for wraps), roll it to about 1/8-inch thickness.
4. Cook It Right:
   A hot skillet or griddle is essential for cooking lavash bread. Cook each side until bubbles start to form and golden brown spots appear, but be careful not to overcook, or it will become too crunchy.

Expert Tips for Success

• Temperature Matters:
  Make sure your skillet is properly heated before you start cooking. Too low, and the bread will be doughy; too high, and it will burn.
• Knead for Texture:
  Kneading is important for developing the gluten in the dough, which gives the bread its soft, chewy texture. If you’re short on time, knead the dough in a stand mixer for a quicker result.
• Customize It:
  Feel free to get creative with toppings. From sesame seeds to za’atar, you can sprinkle a variety of herbs and spices on top to enhance the flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Gluten-Free Lavash:
  To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. You might need to make slight adjustments to the amount of water.
• Lavash Bread Pizza:
  Lavash makes an excellent base for a quick pizza. Simply top with your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings, then bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Joseph’s Lavash Bread Copycat:
  If you’re a fan of Joseph’s Lavash Bread, you can replicate it by adding a bit more olive oil to the dough for extra richness and brushing the cooked bread with a little garlic-infused olive oil.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storing:
  It can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating:
  To reheat, simply place the lavash on a skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute on each side, or warm it in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Wraps and Sandwiches:
  Lavash bread is perfect for making wraps. Fill it with grilled vegetables, hummus, and your favorite protein for a healthy and delicious meal.
• Lavash Bread Pizza:
  Spread some marinara sauce, sprinkle cheese, and add your favorite toppings for a quick lavash bread pizza.
• Side Dish:
  Serve lavash bread alongside soups, stews, or salads as a light and flavorful accompaniment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Lavash Bread?
Lavash bread is a traditional Armenian flatbread made with simple ingredients like flour, water, and salt. It is known for its soft, thin texture and is commonly used for wraps, pizzas, and as a side dish.

How to Make Lavash Bread?
Making lavash bread is simple. Combine flour, salt, water, and oil to form a dough, let it rest, roll it out thin, and cook it on a hot skillet or griddle until golden and bubbly.

Conclusion

Lavash bread is a wonderfully versatile flatbread that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you’re using it for wraps, pizzas, or as a side dish, its soft, pliable texture and simple flavor make it a staple in any kitchen. Try this easy lavash bread recipe today and bring a taste of Armenia to your table!