If you’re on the lookout for a wholesome, nutritious bread that keeps you full for hours, you’ve come to the right place. Highlander Diet Bread is a unique, flourless bread packed with seeds, oats, and grains. It’s perfect for those looking for a gluten-free option that’s rich in fiber and protein, and it doesn’t compromise on taste. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into how to make this incredible bread, its health benefits, and how it can fit into your diet. Let’s start with the basics!
What is Highlander Diet Bread?
Highlander Diet Bread is a hearty, dense bread made without flour. Instead, it’s loaded with rolled oats, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, and other nutritious ingredients. This bread is designed to provide long-lasting energy, making it a favorite among those who follow a healthy, balanced diet.
The bread’s satisfying texture comes from the combination of seeds and grains, which help give it structure and hold moisture. Psyllium husk is a key ingredient in this recipe, as it binds everything together without the need for gluten or flour.
Why Choose Highlander Diet Bread?
There are plenty of reasons to make Highlander Diet Bread a staple in your kitchen. Here are just a few benefits:
1. Flourless and Gluten-Free: Perfect for anyone with gluten intolerance or looking to reduce flour in their diet.
2. High in Fiber: Ingredients like oats, flaxseeds, and psyllium husk ensure this bread is packed with fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
3. Long-Lasting Satiety: Due to its dense structure and high fiber content, even a single slice will keep you full for hours.
4. Rich in Nutrients: Seeds and oats provide essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
5. No Artificial Ingredients: This bread is completely natural, with no added preservatives or artificial flavorings.
6. Versatile: Whether you enjoy it as toast, with toppings, or as a side for soups and salads, this bread pairs well with almost anything.
Ingredients for Highlander Diet Bread
To make this nutritious bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
• 280g rolled oats: Oats are the foundation of this bread and provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• 80g ground golden flaxseeds: Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, helping to bind the ingredients together.
• 60g sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds add a delicious crunch and are packed with vitamin E and magnesium.
• 40g pumpkin seeds: Also known as pepitas, these seeds are a great source of zinc, magnesium, and protein.
• 30g golden millet or white quinoa: These grains add texture and extra protein to the bread.
• 15g sesame seeds: Sesame seeds are high in healthy fats and calcium, adding flavor and nutrition.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 18g psyllium husk: Psyllium husk helps bind the bread together without flour or gluten.
• 500ml warm water: Helps activate the psyllium husk and combine the ingredients.
• Optional: 40g gluten-free sourdough starter: For a bit of tangy flavor and extra rise.
Ingredients for Highlander Diet Bread By US Measurements
2 ¾ cups rolled oats
• ⅔ cup ground golden flaxseeds
• ½ cup sunflower seeds
• ⅓ cup pumpkin seeds
• ¼ cup golden millet or white quinoa
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 3 tablespoons psyllium husk
• 2 cups warm water
• Optional: ⅓ cup gluten-free sourdough starter
These measurements will make it easier to prepare the recipe using US standard units. Enjoy baking your wholesome Highlander Diet Bread!
How to Make Highlander Diet Bread
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper. This ensures the bread doesn’t stick to the pan once it’s baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, millet or quinoa, sesame seeds, and salt. Stir well until all the seeds and grains are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add the Psyllium Husk
Next, add the psyllium husk to the dry ingredients and stir it in. Psyllium husk is crucial because it acts as a binding agent, ensuring that the bread holds together without the use of gluten or flour.
Step 4: Combine with Warm Water
Slowly add the warm water to the dry mixture, stirring constantly. The psyllium husk will begin to absorb the water, turning the mixture into a thick dough-like consistency. If you’re using a gluten-free sourdough starter, mix it in at this stage.
Step 5: Let the Dough Rest
Allow the dough to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period gives the psyllium husk time to absorb the liquid and bind the ingredients together.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
After the dough has rested, pour it into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes or until the top is golden brown and firm.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Allowing the bread to cool helps it set, making it easier to slice without crumbling.
Serving Suggestions for Highlander Diet Bread
Highlander Diet Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:
1. Toast with Avocado: Spread ripe avocado on a toasted slice of Highlander Diet Bread and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chili flakes for a healthy breakfast.
2. Nut Butter Spread: Top a slice with almond butter, peanut butter, or any nut butter of your choice for a protein-packed snack.
3. Savory Side: Pair it with soups or stews for a hearty meal. The bread’s dense texture complements broths and thick soups well.
4. Open-Faced Sandwich: Add your favorite toppings like smoked salmon, cream cheese, or fresh veggies to make a delicious open-faced sandwich.
5. Sweet Treat: Toast the bread and drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a simple but sweet snack.
The Health Benefits of Highlander Diet Bread
High Fiber Content
One of the standout benefits of Highlander Diet Bread is its incredibly high fiber content. With ingredients like oats, flaxseeds, and psyllium husk, you’re getting a significant boost in dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system, helping to regulate bowel movements, and keeping you feeling full for longer periods.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The inclusion of flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds in this bread provides a good dose of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are vital for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health.
Gluten-Free and Flourless
Since Highlander Diet Bread contains no flour, it’s perfect for individuals who are gluten intolerant or those simply trying to cut down on refined grains. Instead, you get whole grains and seeds that provide more nutrients without the drawbacks of gluten.
Long-Lasting Energy
This bread is ideal for breakfast or snacks because it provides slow-releasing carbohydrates from the oats and seeds. This means you’ll have energy that lasts for hours, keeping you full and satisfied without the need for constant snacking.
High in Protein
Although it’s made without flour, Highlander Diet Bread is packed with protein from the seeds, millet, and quinoa. Protein is essential for muscle repair, energy, and keeping you feeling full.
How to Store Highlander Diet Bread
Highlander Diet Bread stays fresh for several days when stored correctly. Here are a few storage tips:
• At Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
• Refrigeration: If you prefer to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: This bread freezes well. Slice the loaf and freeze individual slices in a zip-top bag. You can toast or thaw them as needed, and they’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Add Other Seeds or Nuts?
Absolutely! Highlander Diet Bread is very versatile, so feel free to add other seeds or nuts like chia seeds, walnuts, or hemp hearts. Just make sure to keep the ratio of dry to wet ingredients consistent to ensure the bread holds together.
2. Can I Use a Different Liquid Instead of Water?
Yes, you can substitute water with other liquids like almond milk, coconut milk, or even vegetable broth for a savory twist.
3. Is Psyllium Husk Necessary?
Psyllium husk is an important ingredient because it acts as a binder, helping the bread maintain its structure. However, if you can’t find psyllium husk, you can try substituting it with ground chia seeds or flaxseeds, though the texture may change slightly.
4. Can I Make This Bread Without the Sourdough Starter?
Yes, the sourdough starter is optional. It adds a tangy flavor and a bit more rise, but the bread will still turn out great without it.
Conclusion
Highlander Diet Bread is a nourishing, fiber-packed, flourless bread that will keep you full for hours. Its combination of seeds, oats, and psyllium husk makes it a satisfying option for anyone looking to add more whole foods to their diet. Whether you’re gluten intolerant or just want to enjoy a healthier, more filling bread, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.
Try making it today and experience the deliciousness and health benefits for yourself!