Learn the art of making soft and fluffy Pita Bread with this simple recipe. Whether you use them for sandwiches, wraps, or dipping into hummus, freshly baked pita breads are a delightful addition to any meal. Follow these steps to create your own homemade pita bread that’s far superior to store-bought versions.
Ingredients for Pita Bread
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Baking:
- Cornmeal or semolina flour, for dusting
How to Make Pita Bread
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast, sugar, and warm water. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking.
- First Rise:
- Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Place a baking stone or inverted baking sheet on the middle rack to preheat.
- Divide and Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal-sized pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let them rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Roll Out the Pitas:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. Keep the rest covered while you work to prevent drying out.
- Bake the Pitas:
- Dust a baking sheet with cornmeal or semolina flour. Place the rolled-out pitas on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until puffed and lightly golden. They should form a pocket in the center.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the pitas cool on a wire rack. They will deflate slightly as they cool.
- Once cooled, slice open and fill with your favorite ingredients or serve alongside dips like hummus.
About the Main Ingredients
- Yeast: Activates and helps the dough rise, giving the pita bread its characteristic air pockets.
- Flour: Provides structure and texture to the bread, ensuring it’s soft yet sturdy enough for filling.
- Olive Oil: Adds moisture and flavor to the dough, contributing to the overall taste of the pita bread.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor and helps control yeast activity during fermentation.
Enjoy your freshly baked Pita Bread warm from the oven, perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a delicious accompaniment to your favorite Mediterranean dishes.
