Chickpea Flatbread Recipe for Vanlife Cooking

Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 10–15 mins
Makes: 2–3 medium flatbreads

Chickpea flatbread is an ideal recipe for vanlife cooking. Not only is it gluten-free, but it’s also easy to make, packed with protein, and incredibly versatile. This simple chickpea flatbread recipe is perfect for your next camping or vanlife adventure. You can add any spices or toppings to make it your own, from fresh herbs to a sprinkle of paprika.

Ingredients for chickpea flatbread recipe

120g chickpea flour (also known as gram flour or besan)

180ml bottled water

1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for the pan)

½ tsp sea salt

Optional:

½ tsp cumin or smoked paprika

A pinch of chopped rosemary or thyme

Black pepper or chilli flakes

Instructions:

1. Mix the Batter:

In a bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, salt, and any optional spices for your vanlife cooking. Slowly add water while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in the olive oil, and let the batter rest for 15–30 minutes to hydrate the flour.

2. Cook the Flatbreads:

Heat a non-stick frying pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle a little olive oil to coat the pan. Pour in a ladleful of batter and tilt the pan to spread it out—thicker than a crêpe, thinner than a pancake. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form and the underside is golden. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes until both sides are golden brown.

3. Serve:

Serve warm, drizzled with more olive oil, or topped with roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or crumbled feta. This chickpea flatbread recipe is a great option for vanlife cooking, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of fillings, such as tuna, egg, or hummus.

Overnight Chickpea Flatbread Batter Tips:

How to Store:
Mix the batter as usual and store it in a lidded container or cover the bowl tightly with cling film. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Morning Prep:
Stir well before using, as the flour may settle. If the batter is too thick, add a splash of water before cooking.

Bonus Tip – Slight Fermentation:

Let the batter sit out for an hour before refrigerating, which helps develop a slight sourdough-like flavour—a perfect touch for vanlife meals!

This chickpea flatbread recipe is a fantastic, gluten-free option for your next vanlife cooking adventure. Whether you’re looking for a simple, protein-rich meal or an easy-to-make side, this flatbread fits perfectly into your camper meal prep.

I hope you enjoy baking these bread recipes as much as I've enjoyed developing them. More will arrive here as they make it out of the oven and onto the page.

This chickpea flatbread recipe features in my Curry Recipes hub — the complete guide to curries, spice blends, bases, chutneys and sides from The Flexible Chef. It also appears in my Bread Recipes hub — flatbreads, sourdoughs and everything in between.

Wonky photos, proper bread, genuine adventures — The Flexible Chef

If you're a fan of chickpeas then you may wish to make this chickpea mash - see here.