Chickpea Flatbread Pizza

Ingredients:

For the Chickpea Flatbread:

• 1 cup chickpea flour (also known as garbanzo bean flour or besan)
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

For the Toppings:

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup olives, sliced
• 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula
• Cheese 
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Flatbread Batter:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, water, olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and dried oregano until smooth. Let the batter rest for about 30 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate.
2. Cook the Flatbread:
   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a cast-iron skillet or pizza stone in the oven to heat up.
   • Once the oven and skillet are hot, carefully remove the skillet and add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the bottom.
   • Pour the chickpea batter into the skillet, spreading it evenly.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the flatbread is firm and slightly golden.
3. Add the Toppings:
   • Remove the flatbread from the oven and spread a layer of tomato sauce over it.
   • Arrange the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, olives, and spinach on top of the sauce.
   • Sprinkle cheese over the toppings if using.

4. Bake the Pizza:
   • Return the topped flatbread to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked and the edges of the flatbread are crispy.
5. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly.
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Slice and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy vegan chickpea flatbread pizza!