Homemade Pita Bread
Homemade pita bread is a versatile and delicious Middle Eastern staple. This soft and pillowy flatbread is made from simple ingredients like flour, yeast, water, and salt. It can be easily baked at home, resulting in warm, fluffy pockets perfect for filling with falafel, hummus, or various savory or sweet fillings. Enjoyed fresh and hot, homemade pita bread adds a delightful touch to any meal or snack.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing Spoon or Dough Scraper
- Rolling Pin
- Baking Stone or Baking Sheet
- Oven
- Clean Kitchen Towel
- Plastic Wrap or Damp Cloth
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ cups warm water
Instructions
- Combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.
- Create a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and pour in the olive oil. Gradually add the warm water while mixing the dough.
- Transfer the dough to a clean, floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a baking stone or baking sheet inside to preheat as well.
- Punch down the risen dough gently to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal-sized portions and shape each into a ball.
- Roll out each dough ball into a circle approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the preheated baking stone or baking sheet and bake for 3-4 minutes, or until the pitas puff up and develop light brown spots.
- Remove the baked pitas from the oven and transfer them to a clean kitchen towel. Wrap them in the towel to keep them soft and pliable.
- Repeat the rolling, baking, and wrapping process with the remaining dough portions.
- Serve the pita bread warm and fresh. Fill them with your favorite sandwich ingredients or dip them in dips like hummus or tzatziki.