When it comes to baking and cooking, the foundation of many recipes lies in two simple ingredients: flour and water. These basics can be used to create a wide variety of dishes, from flatbreads and pizzas to noodles and dumplings. In this article, we’ll explore 18 simple flour and water recipes that are perfect for beginners.
From classic crepes and chapati bread to pretzels and bagels, the possibilities are endless when you have a solid understanding of how to work with these two fundamental ingredients. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick snack or create a more complex dish, this collection of recipes is sure to provide inspiration and guidance.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe, exploring the ingredients, techniques, and tips needed to bring them to life.
Homemade Flatbread with Flour and Water
This simple recipe yields a delicious and crispy flatbread using just flour and water as ingredients. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy this classic bread with your favorite toppings or on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired flatbread size.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat (375°F).
6. Cook the flatbreads for 30-45 seconds per side, until they are lightly browned and crispy.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or on its own.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes per side
Basic Flour and Water Pizza Dough
A simple yet delicious pizza dough recipe that requires only two ingredients: flour and water. This dough is perfect for beginners or when you’re short on time, as it’s quick to make and produces a flavorful crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and flour.
2. Mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms. Do not overmix.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat evenly.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let the dough rest at room temperature for at least 1 hour.
Cooking Time:
– Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
– Roll out the dough to your desired thickness and place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
– Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Easy Flour and Water Tortillas
Easy Flour and Water Tortillas
A simple and classic recipe that yields soft, pliable tortillas perfect for wrapping around your favorite fillings or using as a base for tacos, burritos, and more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the warm water while stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape using a rolling pin or your hands.
6. Cook on a dry griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat for 30-45 seconds per side, until tortillas are lightly browned and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Classic Flour and Water Crepes
A French staple, crepes are a delicate and delicious treat that can be enjoyed sweet or savory. This recipe makes a batch of classic flour and water crepes that can be filled with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water, whisking until smooth and free of lumps.
3. Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the liquid.
4. Heat a small non-stick pan or crepe pan over medium heat.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
7. Loosen with a spatula and flip. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
8. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 crepes
Flour and Water Dumpling Wrappers
Create delicious homemade dumpling wrappers with just two simple ingredients: flour and water. This recipe yields a delicate, pliable dough perfect for wrapping around your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and warm water.
2. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let rest for 10-15 minutes to relax the gluten.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/16 inch thick.
Cooking Time:
None! These wrappers are ready to be filled with your favorite ingredients and cooked according to your desired method (steaming, pan-frying, etc.).
Simple Flour and Water Noodles
This classic recipe yields a deliciously simple noodle dish that’s perfect for a quick snack or side dish. With just flour, water, and a pinch of salt, you’ll be enjoying tender noodles in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a thin rope.
5. Cut the ropes into 1/4-inch thick noodles.
6. Cook the noodles in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Drain the noodles and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Flour and Water Chapati Bread
A classic Indian flatbread, chapati is a staple in many households. This simple recipe requires just flour and water, yet yields a deliciously crispy and soft bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and lukewarm water.
2. Mix until a dough forms, adding more water as needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes soft and pliable.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
6. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
8. Cook the chapati for 30-45 seconds on each side, until it puffs up and has a few blisters.
9. Repeat with remaining dough portions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of chapatis cooked)
Enjoy your freshly baked Flour and Water Chapati Bread!
Quick Flour and Water Pancakes
A classic recipe that requires only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, perfect for a spontaneous breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 egg (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water, whisking until smooth and free of lumps.
3. If using an egg, beat it lightly and add it to the mixture, whisking well to combine.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
7. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes per batch
Flour and Water Roti
This simple recipe yields a delicious and authentic Indian-style roti that pairs well with various curries, chutneys, or as a wrap for snacks. With just two ingredients, you can create a tender and flavorful flatbread in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Water, approximately 1/2 cup
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour.
2. Gradually add water to the flour while kneading until a dough forms. The dough should be smooth and pliable, but not too sticky or dry.
3. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes elastic.
4. Divide the dough into small portions (about the size of a golf ball).
5. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it slightly using your fingers or a rolling pin to form a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook the roti for about 30 seconds on each side, until they puff up and have light brown spots.
8. Serve warm with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Flour and Water Fry Bread
This traditional Middle Eastern flatbread recipe yields a crispy exterior and soft interior, perfect for sopping up flavorful sauces or olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water while stirring with a fork until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired bread size.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Cook the bread for 30-45 seconds per side, until crispy and golden brown.
8. Serve warm, perhaps with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sumac.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Flour and Water Sourdough Starter
Create a natural yeast starter using flour and water, the foundation of sourdough bread making. This simple recipe yields a healthy, bubbly starter perfect for your next baking adventure.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (120g) whole wheat or all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60ml) room temperature water
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass or ceramic container, mix together the flour and water until smooth.
2. Cover the container with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature (around 70°F to 75°F) for 24-48 hours. The mixture will start to bubble and emit a sour smell, indicating fermentation has begun.
3. After 24-48 hours, discard half of the starter and add another 1/2 cup (60g) of flour and 1/4 cup (30ml) of water. Mix well and cover again.
4. Repeat step 3 every 24 hours for the next 5-7 days to maintain a healthy, bubbly starter.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe creates a natural yeast starter that can be used in various sourdough bread recipes.
Flour and Water Pita Bread
This simple recipe yields a deliciously soft and pliable pita bread with just two ingredients: flour and water. Perfect for sandwiching your favorite fillings or serving alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 3/4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
4. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired pita size.
6. Roll out each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
7. Place the disks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pita breads are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Flour and Water Biscuits
These simple yet satisfying biscuits are a staple in many kitchens. With just flour and water as the main ingredients, they’re perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles).
6. Place biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Flour and Water Crackers
Make your own simple yet delicious crackers at home with just two ingredients: flour and water. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dips and spreads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour.
2. Gradually add in the warm water, stirring with a fork until the dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet, about 1/16 inch thick.
6. Cut the sheets into desired shapes or strips.
7. Place the crackers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Flour and Water Dumplings
These simple flour and water dumplings are a staple in many Eastern European cuisines, perfect for soups or stews. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
5. If desired, brush the edges with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Cook the dumplings in boiling water or broth for 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Flour and Water Pretzels
These classic pretzels require only two ingredients – flour and water – making them a great option for those looking to avoid additives or artificial preservatives. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of soft, chewy pretzels in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired pretzel size.
4. Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist into a pretzel shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Flour and Water Bagels
This classic recipe yields a deliciously chewy and crusty bagel without the need for yeast or fancy equipment. Simply mix, shape, and bake to enjoy these homemade treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water, stirring with a wooden spoon or a silicone spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Shape each piece into a ball and then stretch into a bagel shape using your thumbs.
5. Place bagels onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Flour and Water Focaccia
This recipe takes inspiration from the renowned Flour and Water bakery in San Francisco, where this beloved focaccia originated. With its tender crumb and flavorful herbs, you’ll be hooked on this simple yet satisfying bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water while stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for 1 hour.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough, shape into a rectangle, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the dough, followed by chopped rosemary and sea salt.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the simplicity of cooking with just flour and water! This article features 18 easy recipes for beginners that require only these two ingredients. From classic flatbread to savory dumplings, you’ll find a variety of dishes that are quick, easy, and delicious. With simple flour and water combinations, you can whip up homemade pizza dough, crepes, noodles, and more. Perfect for novice cooks or those looking to get back to basics, these recipes prove that less can be more when it comes to cooking.
