Psssst! New Joy the Baker Podcast ALERT!
Oh my gosh.
I did this thing today. I hate when I do this thing.
I did this thing where I convince myself that I’m not working hard enough, that I’m missing something, that my hair looks dumb, and I’m wholely unsatisfied.
Do you do this? I can’t be alone in this. It’s entirely frustrating… isn’t it? It’s a temporary funk. I have to make it as temporary as possible. I mean seriously… how much time am i going to waste wallowing for no reason? Silly silly silly. Stop it!
How do I get out of a funk?
I give myself time to make something new.
I make tea. I remind myself to be kind… to myself.
Lemons help. Carbs work wonders. And Tina Fey is always the answer.
Ps. I’m fine… I’m totally fine. I’m just saying… sometimes I randomly beat myself up. Pps. I’m totes fine.
If you’re afraid of yeasted doughs, I strongly suggest you stare down this flat bread. It’s super simple! It’s an awesome yeast starting place.
Oh! I should tell you now that this bread is pretty healthy. It’s full of whole wheat flour and oats, with a bit of salt and pepper. It’s a plain bread. It’s totally made better with flavorful toppings.
If you wanted to inject some flavor into the bread, I’d suggest a few teaspoons of fresh chopped rosemary or tarragon. Wonders!
This dough only gets one rise, then it’s rolled out into little circled and cooked on the stove-top like pancakes. Super simple!
It’s just bits of bread dough.
It’s like we’re making mini stop top pizza doughs.
Wholesome good things that happen in the kitchen always make me feel good/better/best.
This bread is part of an equation.
Cucumber and yogurt is the other part of the equation.
I love an English (hot house) Cucumber. The skin is thinner and not as waxy as regular cucumbers. I love to keep the skin on the cucumbers. I like to de-seed the little suckers by running a spoon down the center… and I love to slice them as thinly as I can.
Fresh herbs are a must! I chose parsley and mint. You could swap the fresh mint for just a hint of fresh dill. Are you a dill person?
Add some lemon, olive oil, and seasonings and this dish feels like a kitchen classic.
The warm hearty bread combines with the bright, herby dip. It’s light, fresh, and makes you feel like you’re at a fancy restaurant after a Swedish massage… even though you’re really just watching Most Eligible Dallas on your couch. Whatevs. I feel better.
Ps. I find that it’s even more luxurious to enjoy this dip and bread with smoked salmon, French rose and a dear friend.
This is how we live.
Whole Wheat Flat Bread
makes 12 small flat breads
adapted from Food Network
3/4 cup warm water, about 95 degrees F
1 package (about 2 1/2 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 3/4 cup whole wheat flour
2 tablespoons uncooked old fashioned oats
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
1 teaspoon olive oil
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup warm water, yeast and sugar. Set aside for 5 minutes. Mixture will grow and foam and that’s how you know the yeast is active and alive.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, salt and pepper. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the yeast mixture. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of water. Bring mixture together with a fork, until all of the flour bits are moistened, and the dough is shaggy. Dump out onto a lightly floured work surface and knead a few times to bring together.
Coat the medium bowl with a teaspoon of olive oil and place dough ball in bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel and allow to rise in a warm place for 1 hour. Dough will double in size.
When dough has rested and risen, dump out onto a lightly floured work surface and knead for a few turns. Use a knife to divide the dough in half, then divide each half into six equal pieces.
Heat a non stick pan (I used my cast iron) over medium heat.
On a lightly floured work surface, roll out each dough piece into a roughly 4 to 5-inch circle. Place dough round in the ungreased, hot pan. Cook on one side for 1 to 2 minutes, until browned on the bottom and slightly puffed. Flip and cook for another 1 or 2 minutes. Remove from pan and serve warm with HerbYogurt Cucumber Dip.
Bread can also be cooled and refrigerated for up to three days. I like to reheat my flat breads in a warm skillet before serving.
Herb Yogurt Cucumber Dip
makes about 3 cups
adapted from Food and Wine
1 (16-ounce) container Greek yogurt*
1 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumbers, de-seeded
2 small garlic cloves, finely minced
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
1 teaspoon lemon zest
about 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
2 tablespoons fresh chopped mint
*If you can not find thick Greek yogurt, you can use plain yogurt as well. Simple line a fine mesh strainer, twice, with cheese cloth and add yogurt. Place strainer over a bowl and let rest in the fridge for 4 hours. Some water will be strained from the yogurt. After 4 hours, use the yogurt as follows:
Toss yogurt together with thinly sliced cucumbers, garlic, salt, pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley and mint. Taste and season accordingly with more salt, pepper, or lemon. Allow to chill in the fridge for 2 hours before serving. This will help the flavors meld. Serve cold with warm flat bread.
Cucumber dip will last, in an airtight container in the refrigerator, for up to 4 days. Just stir well before serving.
Elizabeth @ cucinagirl
your “eight very good ideas” post today inspired me to make this flatbread to go with our indian-spiced lentils/veggies tonight. it went perfectly. getting out the yeast and flour also inspired to me to bake bread tonight — something i haven’t done in over 2 months because i’ve been too busy/exhausted/lazy/surrounded by moving boxes to thing about it. very therapeutic. thank you!
Elizabeth @ cucinagirl
Your “eight very good ideas” post today inspired me to make this flatbread to go with our Indian-spiced lentils/veggies tonight. It went perfectly. Getting out the yeast and flour also inspired to me to bake bread tonight — something I haven’t done in over 2 months because I’ve been to busy/exhausted/lazy/surrounded by moving boxes to thing about it. Very therapeutic. Thank you!
shuggies mom n taylor's gram
You can make thick Greek yogurt easily. Heat milk to around 180 don’t boil. Take off heat and cool down to around 110 degrees. Add a spoonful of plain yogurt and mix up. I set my batch on a heating pad to keep warm for a few hours until it firms up. THEN-line a colander/strainer with coffee filters and strain the yogurt for a while, lots of whey will be in the bottom and the more it’s strained the thicker it gets. It’s tart at first, then mellows out in a day or two. Refridgerate after it’s drained and thickened up. It’s cheaper than buying at the store and you can use any type of milk-nonfat, low or regular fat milk. A gallon makes about 1 1/2 quarts.
kathryn
joy! i’m such a fan. love your site and the podcast. this looks so good. i recently tried to make naan in the oven and it turned out tough and dry. this looks super yummy with the oats and whole wheat flour. i don’t have a nonstick pan though (i’m also a california girl, but i’m living in europe as a nanny and i’m at the disposal of the host family kitchen). do you recommend trying it on the stovetop with a bit of butter or olive oil or attempting to bake them up in the oven like i tried with the naan? thanks for a great site and much love to you!
joythebaker
i think that stove top is the way to go with this bread. butter or olive oil will do too. best of luck and happy nanny-ing!
Lauren
I like Pip’s comment! I hate those days too, the dip looks so fancy can’t wait to try this one out, and get out of my funk!
Emily
This was EXACTLY what I needed! I live in a place where flat bread does not exist in stores, if you can imagine such a thing. On my first attempt, the breads turned out beautifully. That is the sign of a great recipe! Thank you.
Kristin @ FoodFash
This is surely a get-me-out-of-this-funk meal! I’ve been in a funk too… Can we blame it on being ready for cooler weather and the desire to wear boots again??
Jeanna
Just made this (mostly to see if I could)… wow easy!! Totally doable to cook these up with a fussy 3-month-old too. I whipped up a bean dip to go with them for a filling work snack. I’m excited to make them again with the yogurt dip and maybe some kheema. Btw, I’m totally addicted to your blog!!!
SHEILA
Second attempt- perfection- thanks Joy- great recipes~
Melissa
I loved this! I made the dip tonight and was reminded about how delicious fresh herbs are. I made the mint/parsley (curly) version but also some dill on hand for another batch. Didn’t have time to make the bread, though, but gosh it looks easy. I’ve been reading your blog for a couple of years, Joy, and love your photographs, stories, and recipes!
Angie
Joy, you are totally in sinc with me on the food tip, and the mood too. Tzaziki and falafel were on my list this week, but I didn’t have any bread. Thanks to you. I’m going to try.!
SHEILA
Ok , I am not afraid of yeast breads, but for some reason, these were a total flop…. going to try again, since it makes me mad they didnt rise as expected….. the cucumber dip tho— fabulous!
Mararia
wow, delicious, a really fresh dip! I must try that flatbread.
however you feel, you are great and you Know that… the proof is that you make such delicious food!
Love your blog!
Cortnie
Hi Joy, I’m new here but I like you already. I can really really REALLY relate to the funk with a capital F. I’m a professional boxer when it comes to beating myself up but I’m working on it. :)
Love your recipes!
xo
Cortnie
Dagny
Love cucumbers, always makes me feel like I am at a spa…it is a food that is happy to eat : ) Can’t wait to make this!
Aly
This is sooooooo beautiful! My family is Lebanese and we often all come together in the kitchen to make flatbread… which we cover in spices and then slather yogurt on, so this recipe is very close to my heart. I can’t wait to make that dip. Sounds addictive.
Kasey
Joy! I feel you, girl. But you can’t get down on yourself, because you rock. BIG TIME. xoxo.
Jessica
Joy, don’t listen to yourself, your hair is fantastic. And I love coming here to read your blog, thanks for writing!
Melissa
I’ve been feeling funky today. For no good reason. Thanks for this post. I’m thinking about trying your recipe+Tina Fey. ;)
xo,
Melissa
Tatiyana
I seem to find myself in one of those funks always around my birthday (why do birthdays do that) and about every 6 weeks after that. Not working hard enough or achieving as much as I thought I would at this point in my life tend to be the issues….but, you have to remind yourself that you are epically awesome and you are doing the best you can and that’s that. Then eat a pint of ice cream and drink a bottle of wine. It always works:)
Sonnet
Joy,
I completely have days like that too. And I have to tell you that YOU are usually what pulls me out of my funk! I love reading your blog and listening to your podcasts with Tracy. You’re smart, hilarious, and interesting! Thanks for being you and always daring to be so real.
what katie's baking
so healthy yet SO YUMMY!
Gen
Wow this looks so refreshing! That exactly the kind of meal that I like to have, with salmon yum!
Stephanie
Tea. Tea is always a good starting point for a wallow-recovery. And laughter. You did everything right! I’ve been wanting to read that book… sounds like a great cure for a funk.
Kelsey
I hate those funks! But you are not alone. Tina Fey, in television or book form, does work wonders! I have been eating a lot of whole wheat nann from Trader Joes…I want to put these cucumbers on it!
Chrissy @ www.myfarefoodie.com
LOVE the pic of the little dough guy resting under the towel. Boop!
Kendra
Joy…you bring so much JOY to MY life with all of your ideas and your webcasts and your recipes!! I made my first pie last week after reading your post (apple, not peach blueberry, but still DELISH!). Thank you for doing what you do!
p.s totally making this dip with the cucumbers from my garden!!
Pip
Joy, I have an acronym that usually solves this problem for me. A FUNK is when: Feelings Usurp and Nullify Knowledge. Stick with what you know, not what you feel. You’re fabulous!
Jess
This looks so beautiful! Definately making this tonight! Love your blog Joy, It’s gorgeous!
xxx
Kylie
I ‘totes’ get myself into a temporary funk periodically too! I just try to remember that I do this periodically & talk myself out of it – I’m pretty sure cooking something yummy would get me out of it too :)
Koko @ KokoLikes
Joy, you are making my mouth water. WOW this looks amazing and I can’t wait to try it!
Nicole
When I am down and in a funk I look for something to perk me up. Maybe something like buying brand new tea towels like the one in your photo under the flatbread. I love it! Any chance you would share where you got it from?
Annie
This will totally help you get out of your funk! I literally just finished reading Bossypants today, Tina Fey really is the answer to any problem. :)
Keely
I am a dill person – to the max! My only advice in a funk like that is .. whatever you do .. don’t cut your hair! Otherwise you’ll suffer post-cut depression on top of your funk. Tina Fey never fails to give me a boost either, Bossypants and/or 30 Rock are pure gold.
Stacy @ Say It With Sprinkles
I heart making flat bread! Such a good call with the smoked salmon, yum! =)
Kimberlee
i’m pretty sure God knew what He was doing when He named you, ’cause you are just a whole bowl full of cinnamon sugar coated joy. i feel like you’re one of my best girlies, but then you make all of us feel that way. you make a darn fine cookie (totally addicted to your browned butter toasted coconut chocolate chip cookies!), but you warm a girl’s heart as well. loads of joy right back atcha!
joythebaker
so sweet!
rachelsdigestif
I’m absolutely loving your photos (even more so than usual) lately, and also really digging your savory recipes that you keep posting. That yogurt sauce looks auh-mazing!
Sarah
Oh Joy. Give it a minute. I’m in a funk too and the other day a friend told me I was just so mean to myself. She also then said that she refused to feel sorry for me. It was just a bit of prospective. Then today I watched a movie where a character said, “life doesn’t wait for you to get back on your feet. Your life is happening right now.”
That was the push I needed. Life doesn’t wait. So – pull out of the funk!
Kelsey @aslolife
I’m pretty obsessed with cucumber so I must say this looks amazing! And that smoked salmon in the background has me craving this…
Larkin S
I adore your Style, Joy! Style with a capital “s”!! Keep it up, and don’t forget that by writing you are bringing happiness to everyone who can read!
Jillian C
I’ve been in a funk too! But I’m thinking making this would be a fantastic way to cure it. This and some green tea….and about five microwave smores. YES!
Lala
My kind of food!!! Thank you, yum!
Jessica W
Bossypants is perfect to help make you laugh! I hate being in a funk for no reason. Hope it passes quickly!
lidia@ sugarslut
this is awesome, must make my own flat bread!
and the cucumber dip with cilantro instead of all the minty parsley stuff.
p.s. I hate the funks.
Cathy Adkins
You have no idea how happy it makes me when you post a recipe (two this time!) and I have all the ingredients already in my kitchen. My neighbor has given me two bags of cucumbers from her garden. I know what I’m having for dinner tonight!
Molly
Oh girl. I hear you. Funktown express some days.
But this? This post? This post made me happy. Thanks for derailing my Funktown train. It’s goodness.
Jenny
This looks gorgeous. Great presentation Joy!
Caoimhe
awh, seriously don’t be sad!! you make gorgeous food, take amazing pics and are always in tip top form cheering us all up with every post! Food is YUM, you’re on fire! Ignore the temporary glitch!
Sarah-Anne
looks amazing! great job on the recipe Joy!
sarah
Hells to the yea. You’re speaking my language Joy. Most elligible Dallas, being way too freggin hard on oneself and middle eastern flavor. The Egyptian in me thanks you for this post…all of it!
Rachel
Baking is the BEST way to get out of a funk. I do it all the time. Spontanaiety and some kind of success is perfect for those days when I’m down on myself.
I think I’m ready to go up against that flatbread!
Andrea
BOSSYPANTS AND DILL make the WORLD GO ROUNDDDDDDDDDDD
xoxoxoxo
you are wonderful the way you are. brew that funk away with some delicious lemonade and basil.
joythebaker
hearts at you!!
mary
wow wow..random, but i LOVE the spoon in the fourth photo! what is the scene?
Claire
I’m a dill person :) Especially with yoghurt. Especially in potato salad. Yum.
I could so make these flatbreads, they look so gorgeous, especially with the rich, red salmon demanding attention in the background. French Rose, oh yes. Only stumbling block, a good friend. Where do I find one of those? I’m in the market…
Bea Parry
Joy. my dear. That was one too many ‘fines’ for my liking. So I would just like to say, I’m sure your hair is a mess. I’m sure it’s falling into your eyes, which the funk are making sparkle a bit more than usual, I imagine that your cheeks are a little bit redder than usual. And do you know what? You look fantastic. You really do.
Don’t worry about not working hard enough, well you can if you want, but just know that worrying about it is such hard work that you’ll be deserving a day long break after 10 minutes of worrying. That’s a lot of holiday time. But you’re right, something is missing. A lovely smile on your face. Oh wait, it seems to be back. Problem over :)
This post has just given me the most severe case of the munchies for good wholesome food, why thankyou.x
Nicole Franzen
oh my god, I so want that cucumber & yoghurt dish. I am so making that! YUM
Rachel
I love pita adn yogurt dip. I think dill is how I’d go, I loooove dill :)
http://www.sweetheartadventures.blogspot.com
r
Esther
I get in funks more than I care to admit…
and this dip looks admirable! (I was going to say wonderful but for some reason admirable popped into my head and it just felt right)
Cupcake Kat
Keep being kind to yourself Joy, you’re awesome. I am a dill person, I love dill (why do you ask?) and cucumber dip
Annie@stronghealthyfit
You are amazing and beautiful and a fabulous, entertaining writer. Thanks for your lovely blog :-)
Hannah (Hannah Lives)
I am totally in that same funk today. Wondering what is wrong with me why I don’t have my life together. I’ve been wondering why I haven’t graduated from college, got hitched, made a career, and bought a house by the age of 24. Wondering so many things like, “Why?” Time to nip it in the bud. I need this, I am convinced that this will make me ask, “Why NOT?” Because I am only 24, and it is ok that I don’t yet know what to do with my life! This will make me remember that I am only 24 and I don’t want to be ball & chain baby factory. Not that there is anything wrong with that… it just isn’t me… right now. All I need is homemade flatbread, cucumber yogurt dip, smoked salmon, a nice fruit Rose, and ice cream for good measure. Carbs + wine + ice cream + chocolate = All is right with the world
Thanks for the reminder. ;-)
Megan
Hi Joy,
I say totes all of the time now, my husband wanted me to thank you…for that and the cinnamon pull apart bread. I think he likes that one better.
Megan
Mollie
Goodness, I’m glad someone’s having a funky day too. I used to set the timer on my oven and indulge only until it went off. Then I discovered e-books, blogs, and pretty pictures. Hooray for today’s entry! It came at the right time. Your photography is stunning- I couldn’t be in a funk after making those pretties.
Bakerkat
Nothing like good food to raise the spirits/
Caset
Boo funks. Currently in one and, to add to the guilt that always comes with the funk, I have only 10 days left of my year of living in Mexico. I should be out eating my face off and taking pictures of beautiful houses, but instead I’m crunching data and lamenting the crunches that I didn’t do to make up for all the tacos I ate. Tonight, though, I will make flatbread and yogurt dip (remarkably have all the ingredients for once!) and listen to Alice Waters on Fresh Air and all will be better!
jessi
Joy. You delight me.
One question though- do you have a job? like a real job that isn’t writing delightful posts and taking lovely photos of the delicious food you make?
Because I want to know how you find the time, and the money for all the yummy ingredients!
joythebaker
i do have a real job. yes.
Maria @ Orchard Bloom
Oh Yum!! Looks delicious.
Lauren Elise
Thanks Joy! My mom is coming into town today, and I had no idea what to make for lunch. This will be perfect! mmmmmmmmm
Catherine
This is awesome. I’ve wanted to try doing yeast but have always been too scared. This looks totally approachable. AND Bossypants is great. I’m reading it right now! Book club?
joythebaker
book club for two!
Meagan
You’re preaching to the funkadelic choir, sister. The other day I woke up, tried to zip up my jeggings, and -woe- it just wasn’t happening. There were tears, there were tantrums, and I was on the precipitous brink of a tragic new haircut and nail color. But I tugged up my bootstraps and took your and Shutterbean’s advice and went on a healthy 3-day juice cleanse – now I feel like a million bucks with a smile on my face. So there: if you can provide somebody else with some Funkaway, then you are surely worthy of not being in a funk yourself. Inspiring someone else is no small feat – you rock and so do your flatbreads.
mendomama
Joy,
If this post doesn’t bring you out of your funk, I’m not sure what will. It is a true gift, privelege and blessing to positively affect other’s lives- inspiration is POWERFUL! Be gentle with yourself, life will beat you up plenty on its own and yes, pull up those “big girl panties,” make yourself a stiff drink and talk some trash with your girlfriends- always works for me!
joythebaker
i love your comment Meagan! Right on with the juice cleanse! Thank you for coming here so loyally and being awesome. you really make my day!
Stephanie
Aaaah I am ridiculous excited to try out this flatbread!! I currently live in Taiwan and ovens are quite hard to come by, making baking anything incredibly hard if not downright impossible (it’s a terrible travesty, I know). =((( Also, this is the first time I’ve ever commented, so I wanted to say, love your blog, love your podcast, love your everything!! =)
Lauren
joy. girrrrrrrrrrrl. you set a lovely table. this looks like a lovely meal for a hot texas evening. i live in dallas and watch ‘most eligible’ and think to myself — “self. who are these people?!” thanks for the loveliness and don’t forget how rad you are.
Stacey!
I was just thinking that this looks like a lovely meal for a hot San Antonio evening! :) I managed to get sucked into Most Eligible, Big Rich Texas AND Texas Women, and their sheer ridiculousness never ceases to amaze me.
joythebaker
Texas is the new New Jersey. lord help us.
Lauren
amen sister.
Urban Wife
Right there with you on the whole Funktown thing. I am blessed to have a patient husband that won’t put up with my funkiness for long. You’re right – nothing better than making something new in the kitchen to help with the blues. This looks delish and that’s that.
la domestique
The flavor of cucumber yogurt is so refreshing and tasty- I must try this recipe! I beat myself up too sometimes. Totally get it. Thanks for sharing. :)
Suzanne
Pull up your “big girl panties”, take a deep breath, eat chocolate, and get over the funk! We are our own worst critics with “shoulda, coulda, woulda, but….
Question regarding the yeast in the Flat Bread. I use yeast from King Arthur Flour and it is concentrated. A batch of sourdough bread, which makes 2 loaves, calls for 2 teaspoons of KAF instant yeast. Do I still use 2-1/2 teaspoons of my instant yeast to make the Flatbread? I’m having “first-time at my house” company for dinner tomorrow and want to make this for an appetizer.
I love your blog even though I’m “old” and the youthfulness of a 30 year-old is a distant memory. Keep it up, Joy. You’re doing a fantastic job!
Lynne @ 365 Days of Baking
I’m in a two-day funk, sitting here perusing food blogs and knowing I should clean bathrooms, exercise and bake, or at the very least, decide what TO bake for day 191. But I don’ want to do any of it and just want to go back to bed. I’m interested to see what direction I go.
Great flatbread and dip, Joy. Hope it pulled you out of your funk!
Alexis
Ah, the dreaded funk.
They come on for no good reason.
You recognize that fact.
And then you get even more disappointed in yourself.
And you find yourself in an even deeper funk than the original.
(Clearly, I speak from personal experience.)
Best advice I ever received on this? “Be nice to your best friend.” (You!) We are so thoughtful, kind, and forgiving of others. We need to be the same way to ourselves! And, from where I sit, you’re doing pretty awesome at life. De-Funk! x
Bev Weidner
I just love that you said the word TOTES. l.o.v.e.
Jacqui
I love how you made the flat bread into little rounds. Perfect size for topping and just eating with your hands! And we all go through a funk once in awhile, the important thing is that you move on ; )
Elizabeth @ Coppertop Kitchen
I was in a funk last week, too. I also find that the kitchen is the best place to escape from funks, and I have lots of cherry and peach jam, muffins, and a pie to show for it. Post-funk carb and sugar overload, I’m looking at you. :-)
Megan
Joy! I do that too! I hate when it happens though. I guess we just all need a reminder now and then that life is good! And we’re doing stuff with it.
I also love smoked salmon. Give me some of that with goat cheese and avocado and I’ve got it made in the shade.
I’ve been known to bake my way out of a funk. Sometimes it involves beer too. But dear friends sound like a fun way to go too!
Sincerely Jill
Yesterday I was 100% craving yogurt and cucumbers, and I set out to make something only to find out that I did not have any cucumbers. That’s alright because whatever I was going to make wouldn’t be nearly as good as this wonderfulness. Sounds like the perfect recipe for my craving of yogurt and cucumber.
Meghan
This looks great! I’m going to save it and make it for an app next time I get the chance!
Sandi
This would be a nice break from sandwiches in my kid’s lunches. Thanks!
Reagan
Joy, too funny because I can relate! Seems like you know how to pull yourself out just fine lady!
As for the yeast fearers (is that a word?), I was like you once. However, I was getting into the whole non-preservative and processed thing (still am), and my boyfriend actually found this SUPER easy bread recipe and decided, what the hay, if it doesn’t work we’ll try again. It was on YouTube and called
No-knead Ciabatta bread. We made our first loaf by this specific recipe, and WOW! It was fragrant and warm and dee-licious! A little flat, but it was our first. We ate over half that night, not good.
I encourage you all to try making a yeast bread. If at first you don’t succeed, try, try, try, again! Then you’ll be a pro!
Now I’m so excited to try this flat bread stuff. Thanks JOY!!
jenny
joy! this looks like heaven. and by the way, you’re super-swell. :)
Holly
I’ll be making this as soon as I return from vacation. Everything looks fabulous!
Wendy
Your flatbreads look amazing, and your post helped me stop beating myself up for sitting on my couch and guiltily watching Most Eligible Dallas, truly the worst of these Bravo shows that I should be ashamed of watching, right?
joythebaker
it’s THE WORST! right!?
Tabitha @ life of the chefs wife
WOW! i am in love with the flat bread recipe and its a MUST TRY RIGHT NOW for me.
I am not scared of yeast breads but I love that there is only one rise. I cant wait to whip these up for the girls night I am hosting this Sat!
A girls night gets me out of my funk, that and my cat.
Pam D.
Joy, by any chance are you a Cancer? Or Rooster? My bf is also in a fund and wondering if its in the stars….
joythebaker
nope… not a cancer. and i have no idea if i’m a rooster or not. hm… i dunno.
christine [the sugar apothecary]
Oh, Joy. Don’t you go beating yourself up for ONLY being wonderful and ONLY working hard to create delicious things for us to ogle, and ONLY being brave enough to put yourself out there for others to learn from. I come here when I need to be told something sweet or witty or just something… from the heart. You are always here for us, don’t hesitate to ask if you ever need a group hug.
And back to these whole wheat flat breads. Yes, I am petrified of yeast doughs and yes, I think I’m going to have to try these out for sure. I’ve been on a tzatziki kick lately so any fresh, cool yogurt-based cucumber dip with certainly do. Is that a Le Creuset spatula I spy? You’re so fancy.
joythebaker
try them try them! i think you can do it!
Seanna Lea
This looks really good, and like something that I could set in the fridge to rise during the day for a quick dinner at night. Thank you!
Eliz. K
Oh awesome and yum! I am so making these! It reminds me a little of making fresh soft tortillas… another pretty easy and totally delicious project (though rolling them thin enough can be… tough).
And I totally do that too. Most days I am fine, and then randomly– bam. I’m in a funk and I’m trying not to take everyone down with me. I find that journaling regularly helps me not swing so widely. And carbs. And sometimes running. Thank you for sharing, Joy!
joythebaker
high five!
Katie
Ooh, I love the idea of a little bread that bakes up quickly in a pan. And the fact that you can make them ahead of time and reheat them! Plus, the smoked salmon in the corner of your first picture is just calling my name. Sounds delicious!
Jesi
This poem always makes me smile when I’m in a temporary funk, and it seems like the kind of thing that might work for you, too:
http://writersalmanac.publicradio.org/index.php?date=2003/08/18
Michelle
Peeerrrfect! I am having friends over Friday night and this will be the perfect way to get started!
Emily Anne
yummy. this makes me want to make tzatziki! :)
Naomi
This looks great! It looks like the perfect have-a-friend-over-for-tea-time snack. Or maybe even brefkiss?
jen @ the baked life
most eligible dallas????? What is that show? My trashy TV is only Jersey Shore right now, I need more incredibly classy TV to watch as well.
Flatbreads and dip look amazing! Much better dinner than popcorn.
Abby
Definitely understand the funks. I’m new to your kitchen window here, and sorry still in shock – you take the best photos, funk or no funk.
sherri lynn @ life of a wife
This flat bread is calling my name! And the dip sounds good too. Joy I am obsessed with all of your plates!
Lucia
It is one of those days. It IS one of those days. I can’t write. I can’t bake.
Because I write junk stories, and I bake junk cakes.
But it’s temporary, Joy.
I’ll get up, make some fresh mint drink and read Harry Potter, he always helps.
Everything is fine, believe me, Joy.
Cookie and Kate
Oh boy, can I wallow. Sometimes I catch myself in a serious funk and have to force myself to do pilates, make myself look decent, and go have some laughs with a friend. Exercise and laughs (and drinks) work wonders. So do carbs—they release serotonin in the brain. Whole wheat is best because you don’t crash afterward. Who wants to crash when you’re already in a funk? Anyway, I’ve gotta try your whole wheat flat bread. Looks so good with that yogurt dip!
Katie
I too can relate, no worries, you are not the only one. I think we’re just thrown into seeing how everyone around us is constantly doing things “better” then we are, and that throws a wrench in the good vibes. Let the funk wear out (as they always do), sometimes they are a good reminder to REALLY appreciate the non-funks.
joythebaker
wrench in the good vibes.
Erica
I totally get in funks. I remember the first blog post I read from you was the one on baking and boys, and I thought to myself, “this girl could totally be my bff.” And it’s not just because I want you to bake for me! =p You’re awesome, and I don’t think anyone as awesome as you should get in funks. It’s hard to improve upon awesome. We get it.
Sue/the view from great island
This meal looks healthy enough to gorge on…and the glass of rose is a brilliant touch!
Jess
i can’t even tell you how many times i laughed out loud while reading bossypants! love love love tina fey. and i am a complete sucker for anything on bravo…there are worse vices to have in life :)
p.s.- chilled rose and good friends can solve just about anything, i’ve found
joythebaker
truth!
Victoria from London
Joy,
So it’s not just me then? Funks are the worst! Then we realise we have the power to tell them to get stuffed. Your blog usually does it for me too. Love the way your voice and comic timing comes through your writing. That’s hard stuff to do! Remember, all the people you wish you were when you are in a funk, are wishing they were you. Let’s all just enjoy what we do have!
Vx
Julie H. of Spinach and Sprinkles
This looks like it belongs as an appetizer at a FANCY restaurant! -We all randomly go into boxing matches with ourselves. It’s no fun but we all do it….
Have a happy day, Joy! :)
The Dainty Dot
Oh, ps, you gals afraid of yeast: I was once afraid, too. Be flexible with the rise times and get a sense of what a dough should feel like at the different stages. Try the Amy’s Bread book – she teaches great techniques in there.
The Dainty Dot
Yo, Joy, was totally thinking of you this past weekend. My whole community garden has this mountain of cukes – literally, a mountain on our “please share, please take” table. I remembered you tweeted about what else could cukes be good for? I answered tszatszki (excuse my french), remember? Anyway, what the f*k do we do with this torpedoes?? Someone said he makes a cold cucumber soup. Peels, deseeds, whirs up in a machine with stock, salt, pepper. I’d throw in some dill. It freezes well, and in the middle of a January snowstorm, he thaws and he has a taste of summer. How pleasant.
Eliz. K
cold cucumber soup is the BEST! my MIL puts a pinch or so of cayenne pepper too, to give it a kick. yum!
Katrina @ Warm Vanilla Sugar
I get into funks sometimes too, and know how silly they are. I’m currently not in one though, thank goodness! I need to try this bread…and dip…together. Yum.
Lisa
I hate the mean reds. Just remember, “This too will pass.” And give yourself a big hug.
marina
Lovely recipe – look very much like Greek pitta breads…will surely try to make them soon. By the way, I thought it interesting that you have deer friends; didn’t think deer fraternized with lowly humans… :-))))
joythebaker
hahahhaaa! something is seriously wrong with me. typo queen!
Lauren at Keep It Sweet
Cookies or ice cream usually help for when I’m in a funk:-) This could work too!
erin
I randomly beat myself up a lot. But then I call someone and they’re like, snap out of it! Or I make myself a cup of tea and have a sulk, then call someone and they’re like, snap out of it! Sometimes you deserve a pity party. Mostly, I do not. Thanks for being real, Joy. I love your blog.
joythebaker
mostly we just have to seize the day and tell the pity party to scram!
Maris (In Good Taste)
Looks like a delicious dip. This would get me out of a funk very quickly!
Averie @ Love Veggies and Yoga
the thought of dough rising and yeast breads..are a little terrifying for me. I am not a bread maker…but glad to know this is a good newbie recipe.
And being kind to yourself and talking yourself down from that self-imposed ledge, so to speak? good for you and I am very familiar with that “doing a dumb thing” stuff too!
dawn
Great flatbreads :)
Joy you are looking very pretty today :)
Karen
I love me some good flatbread. I’ll just have to make it soon so as to re-live my trip to Sweden :)
Kathryn
Man, I know that feeling too well. Baking is always the answer though especially when it’s something as yummy as this looks!
Paula @ Dishing the Divine
I suppose we could relieve our funk by going on-line and searching for stories of others’ lives who are far more screwed up than ours. :) Okay, so maybe no. Either way, I love yeast breads. Let’s convert the world into yeast users, okay? :)
AmyLynn
Just put the cucumber dip together real quick with my roommate. Amaaaaazing as always. Thank you for always bringing joy into our kitchen and our lives! Yes, I just did that. Shhhhh. Puns are the shiz. <3 A&C
joythebaker
you’re speedy!
Natashia@foodonpaper
I did this funk thing the other day. I saw a bad photo of myself, and convinced myself that I need to ‘change’ something. I spent wasteful hours looking into things I can change, then after a couple more hours of watching The Only Way is Essex, I realised I was fine. Funk gone.
This meal is perfect too!
lynn @ the actor's diet
i get so much satisfaction deseeding english cukes with a spoon.
i’m still afraid of yeast though.
Britt
Lynn!
I love your blog & am so happy I found it via Joy’s :) Just wanted to let you know…
PS Joy I hope you don’t mind me posting a comment to someone else on your blog, but THANK YOU for bringing me to Lynn. I actually found you via an old comment left on SmittenKitchen! I love the blogging community, you guys are my inspiration xo
Britt
PS Joy, your posts (aka inspiration), some trashy music & baking are what get me out of my funk :)
Abby
how does your “deer friend” have human hands and not hooves?! datsh*tcray.
i’m only teasing i promise haha
i’m so totally into bread right meow. i lurve this so bad
Abby
also since you are the one that taught me about self confidence… i know this funk is SUPER temporary. cuz let’s face it. you’re awesome and you work plenty hard! relationships take work AND work takes work so dude. eat some flat bread, where is the chocolate, and ease your way out of the funk and maybe into some Al Green or George Clinton’s Funkadelic.
Gina @ Running to the kitchen
This is like a “relaxed” version of Tzatziki, love it! And just for the record, I think this blog is evidence enough of how hard you’re working. It rocks!
Mandy@Withmilkandflour
Joy – I, as I’m sure many others, can totally relate to this. Every now and again i’ll be all like, i should have achieved more by now, i wish i had longer legs. But then i realise I cant be too bad if I’m so loved by so many wonderful friends and my family. Judging by your blog and your fans here, you are fab and incredibly loved!