Easy Vegan, Gluten-Free Bread with Psyllium

Soft, hearty, and airy with a bit of chew, this vegan, gluten-free bread comes together with minimal ingredients and active time. Our ORGANIC INDIA Whole Husk Psyllium is a gluten-free baker’s dream, lending elasticity and structure without altering taste. Plus—a big plus—there are a whole bunch of health benefits tucked in, too.

A soluble fiber derived from the seed husks of Plantago ovata, a powerful herb grown mainly in India, psyllium is a staunch ally for your digestive system.  Recognized as a natural prebiotic, psyllium promotes growth of beneficial microorganisms, supporting gut health. Best known for smooth digestion and healthy regularity, psyllium fiber is further associated with heart health, healthy cholesterol, and more.

While most gluten-free flour blends should yield solid results with this simple recipe, bear in mind that each brand will bake a little differently. When combining ingredients, expect more sticky batter than dough, though this too will vary. A stand mixer will make pulling this together especially easy, but feel free to mix by hand as well; simply extend the mixing time to about ten minutes. We like to sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking for a little added texture. Feel free to try sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead or simply go bare.

Being both a vegan and gluten-free bread, this simple, tasty loaf won’t rise and expand quite like a “regular” sandwich loaf. What’s lost in size, however, is satisfyingly compensated with taste, texture, and homemade goodness. Try a warm or toasted slice with a dollop of chia jam and a cup of tea, and find out for yourself!

Easy Vegan, Gluten-Free Bread with Psyllium

1 loaf, approximately 12 slices

Ingredients

• 3 Teaspoons ORGANIC INDIA Whole Husk Psyllium
• 1 ¼ Cup unsweetened almond or other plant milk, warmed
• 2 ¼ Teaspoon rapid rise yeast
• 2 Tablespoons sugar or maple syrup
• 3 Cups gluten-free flour 1-1 blend
• 1 Teaspoon baking powder 
• ½ Teaspoon salt
• 2 Teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• ¼ Cup vegetable oil

Method:

1. Prepare the psyllium gel: in a small bowl, mix together the three teaspoons ORGANIC INDIA Whole Husk Psyllium in a scant 2/3 cup water. Let sit.
2. In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk. Remove from heat and stir in the yeast and syrup or sugar. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or other mixing bowl), whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk-yeast mixture with the psyllium gel, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable oil. Use the paddle attachment if using to beat the batter until combined. Scrape down the edges with a spatula and beat on medium speed for an additional 3 minutes. You can also mix by hand.
4. Line a regular 9 X 4 loaf tin with parchment paper and add the dough. Cover with a tea towel and let rise in a warm spot for at least one hour.
5. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 F.  Remove the cover and place in the oven. Bake for one hour, covering loosely with foil halfway through to prevent burning. Let cool 5 minutes before removing from the pan and fully before slicing.
   
   With this gluten-free bread, your sandwich needs are covered! But… what about pizza? Here’s a recipe for that, too: Cauliflower Psyllium Pizza Crust. And pancakes? Easy Psyllium Pancakes and Waffles. There’s never been a sweeter time to be gluten-free, thanks to Psyllium.