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Homemade Pita Bread

Homemade Pita Bread

This easy Homemade Pita Bread recipe yields soft, fluffy, and perfectly pocketed pitas that are quick to make with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for wraps, dips, and snacks, this versatile bread elevates meals with authentic texture and flavor, while being customizable to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Basic Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm water (100°F-110°F)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water and sugar in a bowl, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the olive oil and the activated yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, with the dough bouncing back when poked gently.
  3. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and leave it to rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  4. Shape the Pitas: Punch down the dough and divide it into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into discs about 1/4 inch thick. Cover loosely to prevent drying.
  5. Cook the Pita Breads: Preheat a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Place one disc in the pan for 1-2 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook the other side, allowing a puffed pocket to form. Repeat for each pita.
  6. Cool and Store: Transfer cooked pitas to a clean kitchen towel to keep warm and soft. Serve immediately or cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Use warm water between 100°F-110°F to activate yeast without killing it.
  • Proper kneading develops gluten for soft, chewy texture and perfect pockets.
  • Allow enough rise time for pitas to puff properly during cooking.
  • Preheat the pan well to steam the dough and create pockets.
  • Cover pitas with a kitchen towel after cooking to retain moisture and softness.

Nutrition

Keywords: pita bread, homemade pita, flatbread, Mediterranean bread, pocket bread, quick bread, easy bread