Maybe you already love pita bread from the store, but have you ever considered making your own at home? The warm, pillowy bread that puffs up in the oven is a delightful treat for any meal or snack. Making pita bread from scratch is easier than you might think, and the scent of freshly baked bread throughout your home is an added bonus. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to experience the joy of homemade pita bread with this simple recipe.
Pita Bread
Ingredients:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Once the dough comes together, transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a baking sheet or baking stone inside to heat up.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
7. On a floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. Keep the remaining dough covered with a kitchen towel as you work on each piece.
8. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto the hot baking sheet or stone in the oven. Bake for about 3-4 minutes, or until the pita puffs up and turns lightly golden brown.
9. Remove the pita bread from the oven and stack them on a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and soft. If desired, brush the pita bread with a little olive oil or melted butter for extra flavor.
10. Serve your homemade pita bread warm with your favorite dips, spreads, or fillings. Enjoy the freshly baked goodness!
Homemade pita bread is a versatile staple that you can enjoy in many ways. Use it to scoop up hummus, fill it with your favorite salads or meats for a quick wrap, or simply enjoy it warm with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. Once you’ve tasted the difference of freshly baked pita bread, you may never want to go back to store-bought again!
