Healthy Lentil Bread

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Lentils:**
Rinse the lentils thoroughly to remove any dirt. Place them in a pot with 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the lentils are soft and have absorbed most of the water. Be careful not to overcook them. Once done, drain any excess water and allow the lentils to cool slightly. You can also use canned lentils for convenience, but cooking your own will provide the best texture and flavor.

#### 2. **Mash the Lentils:**
Once the lentils have cooled, mash them with a fork or potato masher until they form a smooth puree with a few chunks remaining. This will help create a denser, more moist texture in your bread.

#### 3. **Mix the Dry Ingredients:**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and any optional spices such as garlic or onion powder. Stir the dry ingredients together until well combined.

#### 4. **Combine the Wet Ingredients:**
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed lentils, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar, and ground flaxseeds if you’re using them. This mixture will be a bit thick, but that’s what you want for a dense and moist bread.

#### 5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:**
Gradually add the wet lentil mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined into a thick batter-like consistency. If the dough feels too dry, add a splash of water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a thick yet scoopable texture.

#### 6. **Prepare the Pan and Bake:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with oil or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.

Bake the bread for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the loaf should be golden brown, and the bread should feel firm to the touch.

#### 7. **Cool and Serve:**
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial, as it allows the bread to firm up and slice better.

Slice the bread into thick slices and serve with your favorite toppings. It’s perfect with a spread of nut butter, avocado, or just a simple smear of olive oil and sea salt.

### Tips & Variations:

– **Gluten-Free Option:** Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the whole wheat flour to make the bread gluten-free. You can also add a tablespoon of xanthan gum to help with texture and structure.
– **Add Seeds or Nuts:** For extra crunch, you can mix in sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or chopped walnuts. These add an additional boost of healthy fats and texture.
– **Herb Infused:** If you enjoy savory bread, consider adding finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or basil to the batter for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
– **Sweeten It:** For a sweeter version, increase the amount of honey or maple syrup and add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.

### Why You’ll Love Healthy Lentil Bread:

Not only does this lentil bread taste fantastic, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. The lentils give the bread a high protein and fiber content, making it a perfect choice for those looking to boost their intake of plant-based nutrients. Plus, it’s a filling and satisfying alternative to regular bread, helping to keep you full longer and reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks.

Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional bread or simply want to try something new, this lentil bread is a delicious and nourishing option. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, toasted, or as the base for your next sandwich creation. Happy baking!