Flatbread Is The Versatile, Inflation-Busting Dish Of Your Dreams

Currently, the economic forecast is akin to that of a prolonged, steady rain — the kind that lets up briefly, but continues on regardless of momentary lapses. The USDA reported that in 2022, food-at-home prices are expected to increase anywhere from 10% to 11%. Economic vocabulary like CPI (Consumer Price Index) and inflation rates are on the tongue of virtually every American citizen. A PEW Research Center poll conducted in May listed inflation as the No.1 problem facing Americans, with 70% of those polled saying it is a very big problem. There are, of course, glimmers of hope, things that we can all do to shore up our budgets and ensure that there is food on the table. And this is where the humble flatbread comes into play.

Flatbreads consist of three main ingredients, according to Bon Appétit: flour, salt, and water. There are numerous variations of flatbread from cultures across the world, including pita bread, naan, and focaccia. The beauty of these breads is that, once made, the possibilities are endless. And it is this versatility that makes flatbread a great solution for your inflationary woes.

Versatility and affordability are the two words you need to be thinking of when it comes to flatbread. It is versatile in the sense of just how much you can do with it. Liz Rayo, of CraftMark Bakery, told Food Business News that flatbread "allows consumers to do different things with them at home whether it be for a sandwich carrier, a wrap or a pizza ... It gives the consumer a lot of creativity." So you can make multiple different meals using flatbreads, which leads into the economics of it.

While flour is more expensive than it was a year ago, 22.7% according to Small Business Trends, it is hardly out of reach for the average consumer. But the key to flatbread is to make it at home. Spruce Eats says that you should never pay $2 for two pieces of flatbread when you can make a significantly larger amount at home for considerably less money. Made too much for one serving? Simply throw it in the freezer to save for a later date.

It is in these two ways that flatbreads are all but inflation-proof. You can make virtually anything with them, like grilled flatbread with peach and plums or flaky malawach bread. The important thing is that you make it in the safety and control of your own kitchen.