Pita Bread
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
35 mins
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Cook Time
16 mins
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Additional Time
1 hr 20 mins
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Total Time
2 hrs 11 mins
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Servings
8 pitas
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Calories
203 kcal
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Course
Bread
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Cuisine
Mediterranean
Pita Bread
Description
The dough combines warm water, sugar, yeast, flour, olive oil, and salt. After activating the yeast with a flour mixture and resting briefly, the olive oil and remaining flour are added, and the dough is kneaded for elasticity. It rises until doubled, then is punched down and divided into portions. Each portion is rolled out evenly on a floured surface to ensure proper puffing during baking.
Baking on a preheated hot stone or heavy pan on the oven's lowest rack encourages fast rising and pocket formation by trapping steam within the dough. Proper water temperature is critical for activating yeast without killing it, and careful flour measurement affects dough hydration and texture. Baking on a single rack aids in even cooking.
This pita bread is ideal for sandwiches, dips, or serving alongside Middle Eastern dishes. The pockets allow for easy stuffing and the bread holds up well to fillings.
To get the best results, ensure dough is neither too dry nor too sticky by measuring flour accurately. Adjust water temperature between 105-110°F to optimize yeast activity. Flour the rolling surface well to prevent sticking and tearing, which can prevent puffing. Avoid baking multiple racks at once to maintain consistent oven heat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water 105 to 110F) (240mL, warm
- 1 (0.25-oz.) packet active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour divided, plus additional for dusting (360g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, stir together the warm water, yeast, and sugar until well combined. Whisk in ½ cup flour until smooth. Let stand, uncovered, in a warm, draft-free place until bubbly, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the olive oil, salt, and remaining 2½ cups flour until a shaggy dough forms. With the mixer on low, knead the dough for 3 minutes. Cover with a towel and let rest for 10 minutes. (You can also mix this with a wooden spoon and knead by hand.)
- Knead again, until a smooth and elastic dough is formed, about 2 minutes more. Place the dough in a lightly greased large bowl. Cover with a damp tea towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Set an oven rack in the lowest position of the oven, and place a pizza stone, heavy baking sheet, or large cast-iron skillet. Preheat the oven to 475F.
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 8 equal pieces, and shape into balls. Cover with a towel and let the dough balls rest for 10 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each into a 6-inch circle. Working one or two at a time, place dough circles on the hot stone; bake until puffed, about 2 minutes, flip and continue baking until pale and puffed, about 2 minutes more. Repeat with the remaining dough. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure water is between 105 and 110°F to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Measure flour by fluffing and spooning into the cup rather than scooping to avoid overpacking and dry dough.
- Roll out dough evenly and flour the surface well to prevent sticking and tearing, which would inhibit pocket puffing.
- Bake on a single oven rack to maintain even heat and consistent cooking.
- Remove additional oven racks or place them high to allow space for baking stone on the bottom rack.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8pitas
Amount Per Serving
Calories 203 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 203kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 36g | 12% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Sodium | 293mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 51mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 0.4g | 1% |
| Calcium | 8mg | 1% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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