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Ezekiel bread is not just any bread—it carries deep historical and spiritual significance. Ezekiel 4:9 mentions this bread, made from a combination of grains and legumes, symbolizing sustenance and God’s provision. The recipe, called ‘Ezekiel bread,’ draws from the biblical story where God commands the prophet Ezekiel to make a bread mixture using barley, wheat, lentils, millet, and spelt, representing a complete and balanced diet.
Today, this bread is celebrated for its nutritional value, combining various grains and legumes to create a hearty, protein-rich loaf. Here’s a recipe inspired by the ancient biblical version of Ezekiel bread, updated for modern kitchens.
Ezekiel Bread
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Wooden Spoon
- Dough Scraper or Knife
- Greased Bread Pan
- Cloth or Plastic Wrap
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup wholewheat flour
- 1/2 cup spelt flour
- 1/4 cup barley flour
- 1/4 cup lentil flour
- 1/4 cup millet flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tsp dry active yeast
- 1 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tbsp olive oil optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, spelt flour, barley flour, lentil flour, millet flour, and salt.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and honey (if using) in the warm water. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Mix and Knead
- Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the olive oil (if using) and mix everything together until the dough starts to come together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour a tablespoon at a time.
3. First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap.
- Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
4. Shape the Loaf
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
- Shape the dough into a loaf by folding in the sides and rolling it up. Place the loaf into a greased bread pan.
5. Second Rise
- Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-60 minutes, until it has risen slightly above the rim of the pan.
6. Bake the Bread
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve once it’s fully cooled.
Biblical Connection
Ezekiel bread is directly inspired by the biblical passage from Ezekiel 4:9 where God instructed the prophet Ezekiel to make bread using grains and legumes, specifically:
- Wheat
- Barley
- Lentils
- Millet
- Spelt
This combination of ingredients symbolized God’s provision and was a source of nourishment during difficult times. In Ezekiel’s case, it was a sign of God’s faithfulness, even in exile. Today, Ezekiel bread remains a wholesome and filling food, rich in protein, fiber, and nutrients.
Ways to Enjoy Ezekiel Bread
- As a Sandwich: Ezekiel bread makes a perfect base for any sandwich. It pairs beautifully with cheese, vegetables, or your favorite spread.
- With Soups and Stews: Enjoy a slice of Ezekiel bread with a bowl of hearty vegetable soup or lentil stew.
- As Toast: Toast a slice and top with butter or your favorite jam for a satisfying snack.
- With Honey: Drizzle a bit of honey on the warm bread for a touch of sweetness that aligns with the biblical reference to honey as a symbol of the Promised Land.
Final Thoughts
Ezekiel bread is more than just a nutritious loaf—it’s a reminder of God’s provision and faithfulness in times of need. Whether you’re making it to honor biblical traditions or simply to enjoy a healthy, hearty bread, Ezekiel bread is a timeless recipe with deep roots in both history and scripture. Enjoy this wholesome bread and reflect on its significance as you nourish both your body and your spirit. Want more recipes? Feel free to Ask.
This recipe provides a direct link to biblical history, and its rich, nutty flavor and dense texture make it a favorite for health-conscious eaters. Have you made this bread? Let me know in the comments!
