Everyone has flour and water at home, but hardly anyone imagines that you can create 6 recipes this irresistible

Friday 28 November 2025 15:30 - Mirella Mendonça
Everyone has flour and water at home, but hardly anyone imagines that you can create 6 recipes this irresistible

You open the pantry, see that packet of flour and think: "Just that and water, you can't do much." But that's where many people are wrong. This basic duo, present in practically every kitchen, is capable of giving life to delicious, comforting preparations that conquer for their flavor and simplicity.

The combination of flour and water is an ancient staple. Entire civilizations have fed themselves with simple mixtures that have evolved into incredible recipes - and today, with a touch of creativity and the right ingredients on hand, it is possible to transform this mixture into bakery-worthy breads, pastas and snacks.

In this selection, I've put together 6 recipes where the base is always flour and water. Some use olive oil, like the golden and fragrant focaccia that goes straight from the oven to the table. Others call for yeast, such as the artisan bread that rises slowly and fills the house with its embracing aroma. And, of course, you can't miss a good pizza recipe: crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, perfect for any day of the week.

The beauty of these recipes lies in the contrast: we start with simple ingredients, but the end result is worthy of applause. What's more, they're affordable options that don't require complicated techniques or professional utensils. All you need is a little time, patience - and hunger.

If you've ever found yourself short of ingredients and out of ideas, this content is for you. But even those with a full pantry will be surprised by the potential of a simple pasta dish. Get ready to rediscover the pleasure of cooking with what you already have.

Flour and water will never be just flour and water again.


1. Baguette made with flour and water

It starts out simple, with just flour and water and the touch of yeast changes everything. The result is a golden crust, a light interior and the aroma of a French bakery.

Quick no-knead baguettesRecipe Quick no-knead baguettes

Craving a delicious baguette? Skip the trip to the bakery and make it at home! With this quick and easy recipe, making your own bread will be a breeze! You won't be able to resist the crisp crust and soft crumb of this baguette :-) Don't forget to save...

2. Pizza dough born from simplicity

Flour and water form the base, and a drizzle of olive oil gives the dough elasticity. With yeast, it rises and is perfect for baking topped with whatever you like.

How to make a pizza dough?Recipe How to make a pizza dough?

The recipe for a pizza dough to make your own pizza from scratch!


3. Pita bread: the air that turns into magic

The basic mixture of flour, water and yeast creates a thin dough which, when it comes into contact with heat, inflates and forms the famous pita "pocket". A touch of yeast adds to the lightness.

Stovetop pita breadRecipe Stovetop pita bread

Today, we're trying this round bread straight from the Middle East: pita bread! It's super easy to make, and with our written instructions, photos, and video, you can easily recreate this recipe at home. You can enjoy it as is throughout the meal, or...

4. Rustic artisan bread

Here, flour and water combine with yeast to create a dough with a firm texture and a slightly sour taste. A long rest and a hot oven do the rest.

Super-easy dutch oven breadRecipe Super-easy dutch oven bread

We're used to using our Dutch oven for beef bourguignon or ratatouille, but did you know you can also use it to make bread really easily ? This foolproof, super-easy recipe makes a loaf of bread that's (almost) as delicious as one from a bakery, with...

5. Focaccia: the bread that loves olive oil

The base is the same: flour and water. What changes is the generous drizzle of olive oil and the yeast that give the focaccia its fluffy texture and distinctive flavor.

Focaccia, italian rosemary breadRecipe Focaccia, italian rosemary bread

Travel to Italy with this easy, summery focaccia recipe. Perfect for snacking as an appetizer or serving as a side throughout the meal. Soft and fluffy, you won't be able to resist its flavors of olive oil and rosemary. Follow the step-by-step...

6. Gluten-free bread

Born from simplicity, arepas combine flour (usually corn) and hot water. A touch of salt and oil makes the crust golden and the crumb soft.

Venezuelan arepas with chicken and avocado – reina pepiadaRecipe Venezuelan arepas with chicken and avocado – reina pepiada

Want to take your taste buds on a trip? Try this sandwich made with arepas, Venezuelan rolls that are quick and easy to make! Yeast-free , they're also naturally gluten-free , since they're made from corn flour . A perfect recipe for a night in...


Mirella MendonçaMirella Mendonça
I am the editorial manager at Petitchef (Portugal and Brazil) and a huge enthusiast of travel and world cuisine, always in search of new flavors and experiences. However, as much as I love exploring the delights of different cultures, my mom's cooking will always be my favorite — with that unique flavor that only she can create.

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