Veggie bread

Veggie Bread is a delicious and healthy option, packed with the goodness of vegetables, and perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a side dish. This bread is moist, flavorful, and a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your diet. Here’s a simple recipe to make Veggie Bread:

Veggie Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a slightly sweet flavor)

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)

• 1/2 cup grated carrot (about 1 medium carrot)

• 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper (any color)

• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)

• 1/2 cup chopped spinach (optional, for added greens)

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (optional, for crunch – like walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Grease or line a loaf pan (8×4 or 9×5-inch) with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the vegetables:

   • Grate the zucchini and carrot using a box grater or food processor.

   • Squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This will help prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.

   • Chop the bell pepper, onion, and spinach (if using) into small pieces.

3. Mix the dry ingredients:

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).

4. Mix the wet ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, beat the eggs lightly.

   • Add the vegetable oil (or melted butter), honey or maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine.

5. Add the vegetables:

   • Fold the grated zucchini, grated carrot, chopped bell pepper, spinach, and any other veggies you’re using into the wet mixture. Stir to combine. You can also add chopped nuts or seeds at this point for some crunch.

6. Combine wet and dry ingredients:

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined – be careful not to overmix.

7. Bake the bread:

   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.

8. Cool and serve:

   • Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

   • Slice and serve as a healthy snack, breakfast, or side dish.

Optional Variations:

• Cheese: Add some shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan) for a cheesy veggie bread.

• Herbs: Add some fresh or dried herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for added flavor.

• Spices: Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a little heat.

This Veggie Bread is not only a great way to use up extra vegetables, but it’s also versatile and can be customized to your liking. Enjoy!