Recipe

Barley and Lentil Bread

A hearty whole-grain loaf with barley, wheat, millet and lentils.

"Take thou also unto thee wheat, and barley, and beans, and lentiles, and millet, and fitches, and put them in one vessel, and make thee bread thereof…"
Inspired by Ezekiel 4:9 (KJV)
Servings
Serves: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)
Time
About 2 hours 30 minutes, including rising
Contains:
Wheat (gluten)

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus a little for the bowl
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup barley flour
  • 1/2 to 1 cup all-purpose flour, as needed
  • 1/3 cup cooked red lentils, mashed
  • 2 tablespoons millet
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt

Steps

  1. Stir the honey into the warm water, sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until foamy.
  2. Add the olive oil, mashed lentils, whole wheat flour, barley flour, millet and salt. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Add all-purpose flour a little at a time and knead for 8 to 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and only slightly sticky.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, until nearly doubled.
  5. Shape into a loaf, place in a greased 9-by-5-inch pan, cover and let rise again for 30 to 40 minutes.
  6. Bake at 375°F for 35 to 40 minutes, until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped. Cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Slice it slowly and share it. Bread made by hand is a small act of patience.

Next recipe: Jacob's Red Lentil Stew