Pita Bread Recipe
Pita bread has a long and storied history that dates back over 4,000 years. Originating in the Middle East, pita bread was a fundamental part of the diet for many ancient civilizations, including the Greeks, Egyptians, and Mesopotamians.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel
- Rolling Pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven or stovetop griddle
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast.
- Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- Add 2 cups of flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture is well combined.
- Gradually add the remaining 1.5 cups of flour, a little at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning the dough to coat it with oil.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a ball and then use a rolling pin to flatten each ball into a circle about ¼ inch thick.
- Bake the PitasOven Method:Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a baking sheet in the oven to preheat as well.
- Carefully place the rolled-out dough circles onto a piece of parchment paper.
- Transfer the parchment paper with the dough onto the preheated baking sheet.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the pitas puff up and are lightly golden brown.
- Stovetop Method:Heat a stovetop griddle or heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the rolled-out dough circles on the hot griddle.
- Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until the pitas puff up and have golden brown spots.