Chickpea flour bakes into a thin golden flatbread with a tender center, crisp edges and plenty of olive oil and black pepper.
A long rest lets the chickpea flour hydrate in Fainá, smoothing out the batter before it meets a hot pan. The shallow layer sets quickly at the edges while the center stays tender.
Use a wide metal pan that can tolerate high heat, and whisk the rested batter again before pouring. The flour settles as it stands, so skipping that stir can leave an unevenly set bread.
Method
Whisk the chickpea flour, water, salt, black pepper and 2 tbsp olive oil into a smooth batter. Cover and rest for in the fridge.
Heat the oven to 450°F (230°C) with a 12-inch cast iron skillet inside. Carefully add the remaining olive oil to the hot skillet and swirl to coat.
Whisk the batter thoroughly and pour into the skillet. Bake for until the edges are browned and the center is firm with no liquid batter.
Let the flatbread settle briefly, then cut into eight wedges and lift out with a thin spatula. Serve warm.
Forkue tips
- A smaller pan makes a thicker, softer center; use the specified width for a thin flatbread.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate wedges for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or a 425°F (220°C) oven to restore the edges; microwaving makes them soft.
Kitchen gear
Forkue may earn a commission from links on this page, at no extra cost to you.Nutrition per serving, estimated
Fainá: FAQ
Can I use wheat flour instead?
No. Chickpea flour gives this batter its characteristic texture and flavor, and wheat flour would need a different formula.
Why did the batter separate?
Chickpea flour settles during the rest. Whisk it thoroughly just before pouring into the hot pan.
How do I store and reheat Fainá?
Refrigerate wedges for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or a 425°F (220°C) oven to restore the edges; microwaving makes them soft.
How long does Fainá take?
About 4 hr 40 min in total: 4 hr 10 min prep and 30 min cooking.
What do I need to make Fainá?
The key ingredients are chickpea flour, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Fainá?
A smaller pan makes a thicker, softer center; use the specified width for a thin flatbread.
Cook this next
4 hr 50 minCanadian · Gluten-free
Molasses Baked Beans
3 hrAfghan · Gluten-free
Mastawa (Afghan Lamb and Rice)
4 hr 35 minSpanish · Dairy-free
Ensaimada
4 hr 35 minVenezuelan · Gluten-free
Passion Fruit Mousse
4 hr 45 minPolish · Vegetarian
Polish Chocolate and Walnut Cake
4 hr 30 minBarbadian · Gluten-free