Pita bread is a type of flatbread that is popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is soft and pillowy and can be stuffed with various ingredients like falafel, hummus, and veggies. Making pita bread at home is easy and requires only a few ingredients. The dough is made with flour, water, yeast, and salt, and is then rolled out and baked in a hot oven.
The result is a delicious and versatile bread that can be used in many different dishes. With this simple recipe, you can make your own fresh pita bread in no time!
Why This Recipe Works:
This pita bread recipe is foolproof, thanks to its clear instructions and minimal ingredients. The dough is easy to handle, making it perfect for beginners looking to try their hand at bread-making. Plus, the satisfying pocket that forms as the bread bakes is a testament to the recipe's success.
By making pita bread at home, you can control the ingredients and customize the flavor to suit your taste. Homemade pita bread is also fresher and more flavorful than store-bought options, leaving you with an irresistible and healthy snack or meal option.
Ingredients
All-purpose flour - the base of the dough, provides structure; substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Instant yeast - helps the dough rise and create the pita's signature pocket; active dry yeast can be used with slight adjustments.
Salt - enhances the flavor of the bread; can use sea salt or kosher salt.
Olive oil - adds moisture and a hint of flavor; substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter.
Warm water - activates the yeast and brings the dough together; ensure it's not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Tips
- Don't over-knead the dough; it should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Allow the dough to rest and rise for optimal texture.
- Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent pocket formation.
- Preheat your oven and baking surface for best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container or freeze for longer shelf life.
How to Serve
Pita bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve it warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference and the dish you're pairing it with.
- Stuff pita pockets with your favorite fillings, such as falafel, grilled vegetables, or chicken.
- Cut pita bread into wedges and serve with dips like hummus, tzatziki, or baba ghanoush.
- Use pita bread as a base for mini pizzas, topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and your choice of toppings.
Need more ideas? Check out What To Serve With Pita Bread for 15 delicious recipes.
Similar Recipes
Pita Bread
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ cups warm water
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add olive oil and warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
- Cover the dough and let it rise for 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) with a baking sheet or pizza stone inside.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a thin circle.
- Place the dough circles on the preheated baking surface and bake for 3-5 minutes, until puffed and slightly golden.
Nutrition
Notes
- Don't over-knead the dough; it should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Allow the dough to rest and rise for optimal texture.
- Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent pocket formation.
- Preheat your oven and baking surface for best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container or freeze for longer shelf life.