Homemade Pita Bread

Ingredients

• • 500–530g (17-18.5 oz.) strong white bread flour or 50% white and 50% whole-wheat flour
  • 360g (12.7 oz.) lukewarm water (40°C / 104°F)

• • 3 tsp dry instant yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar

Instructions

1. 1. Activate Yeast: In a mixer’s bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and lukewarm water. Blend to dissolve the yeast. Set aside for 5-10 minutes until the yeast froths.
   2. Mix Dough: Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook, mix for 6-8 minutes until the dough becomes an elastic ball and a bit sticky. You can also mix by hand.
   3. First Proof: Coat the dough with olive oil, place it in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel. Let it sit in a warm place for at least 20 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

1. Shape Dough: Deflate the dough gently with your hands. Use a tiny bit of flour if it’s too sticky. Split the dough into 6 evenly sized balls (about 145g/5 oz. each). Let the balls rest for 15 minutes before shaping.
2. Shape Pita: Use a rolling pin or stretch with your hands to form each ball into a circle about 20cm in diameter. A rolling pin will make a crunchier pita, while hand stretching will yield a softer, fluffier one. If the dough springs back, let it rest for a few minutes, then continue shaping.
3. Cook Pita:
   • • Pan Method: Heat a non-stick frying pan to medium heat, add a little olive oil, and wipe off any excess. Cook each pita for about 3 minutes on each side, until slightly colored and still soft. If your pan has a lid, use it to keep the moisture in.
   • Steam Method: Cut a piece of aluminum foil to fit your pan. Generously sprinkle and spread olive oil on it. Shape and place your pita on the foil. Pour 2-3 tablespoons of water in the pan over medium heat to create steam. Place the pita on the foil in the pan, cover with the lid, and steam for 12-15 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. For more color, press lightly with a wooden spoon while cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve warm with hummus, tzatziki, or your favorite dip.

• Use as a base for sandwiches or wraps.
• Enjoy as a side with soups and salads.

Cooking Tips

• • Adjust the flour amount based on the dough’s consistency.

• Letting the dough rest between steps makes it easier to handle and shape.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Using whole-wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.
  • Olive oil provides healthy fats.

Dietary Information

• This recipe can be made vegan by using plant-based milk.
• For a low-carb option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour.

Storage

• • Store leftover pita bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.