Q : What is pita bread?

A : Pita bread is a famous Middle Eastern flatbread, also known as Arabic Bread, Syrian Bread, or Greek Pita Bread. It's often used to make sandwiches or served with dips and spreads.

Q : What is the difference between pita bread and naan?

A : Pita bread is typically lighter and has a pocket that can be filled, while naan is thicker, softer, and often contains dairy products like yogurt or milk.

Q : Can the pita bread dough be prepared ahead?

A : Yes, the dough can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

Q : Why won’t my pita puff?

A : If your pita doesn’t puff, it might be due to the dough not being rolled thin enough or the oven not being hot enough. Ensure your oven is preheated and the dough is evenly rolled.

Q : Can you freeze pita bread for later use?

A : Yes, you can freeze pita bread. Wrap each pita in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Q : What's the best way to reheat frozen pita bread?

A : Reheat frozen pita bread in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Q : Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

A : Yes, you can use half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat flour to add more fiber and nutrients.

Q : How can I prevent my pita bread from drying out when reheating?

A : Cover the pita with a damp paper towel in the microwave or wrap it in aluminum foil in the oven or toaster oven.

Easy Pita Bread Recipe (+ how to warm up pitas)

Description

Make delicious, fluffy pita bread at home with this easy recipe. Discover the best ways to heat up pita bread using various methods like the toaster oven, gas stove, and microwave. Follow our step-by-step guide to enjoy warm, delightful pita bread perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

500g All Purpose Flour (Stone Ground Flour) + extra for dusting

14 g (2 tbsp) Instant Yeast

30 ml (2 tbsp) Brown Sugar

7,5 ml (1 1/2 tsp) Salt

375 ml (1 1/2 cup) Water, luke warm

45 ml (3 tbsp) Olive Oil

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Instructions

1. Combine the Dry Ingredients

Sift flour into a large mixing bowl. Add instant yeast, sugar and salt.
Stir the dry ingredients together.

2. Make the Pita Dough

Make a well in the middle of the flour mixture and add lukewarm water and olive oil.

The dough can be made by hand or by using a stand mixer.

If you make it by hand, stir all the ingredients together with a wooden spoon to form a dough. Transfer it to a clean countertop and knead it for 12 – 14 minutes.
If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead for 8 - 10 minutes.

The dough should be smooth and elastic but still a bit tacky.

3. First Proof (1 - 2 hour)

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled mixing bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let the dough proof in a warm place until it has doubled in size. This will take between 1 and 2 hours.

4. Shape the Pita Bread

Gently knock down the proofed dough.
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll into balls.
Press the balls down a bit and cover them with a clean kitchen towel.
Lightly dust the countertop with flour and roll each ball out thinly and evenly until they are about 15 cm (6 inches) in diameter.
Place the rolled-out pita bread dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover with a clean kitchen towel.

5. Second Proof (30 minutes)

Proof the pitas for another 30 minutes in a warm place.

6. Bake the Pita Bread

The pita bread can be cooked in two different ways.

The Oven Method (our preferred method)

Preheat the oven to 240 ºC (450 ºF). Make sure the oven rack is in the middle of the oven.
Just before baking, flip the rolled-out pita breads over.
Bake for 5 minutes or until light golden brown and puffed up.

The Stovetop Method

Pitas can also be cooked in a large skillet on the stovetop. Make sure the skillet is hot, flip the pita breads over and place in the hot skillet.
Cook for 30 - 40 seconds and flip over. After about a minute it will start to puff up. When it is fully puffed up, flip over again and cook for another minute.

Cool on a wire rack or wrap in a clean kitchen towel if you want the pitas to stay warm and soft.

Pitas are best when served warm, but can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 – 3 days.

7. Serve with mezze, dips or your favorite filling. Enjoy!

Notes

Storage Instructions:

Room Temperature - Cool pita bread completely. Wrap in aluminum foil and store in an airtight container or plastic bag. Keeps for 2-3 days.

Freezer - Cool pita bread, wrap in aluminum foil, and store in an airtight container or plastic bag. Keeps for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature for 1-2 hours before reheating.

How to Reheat Pita Bread:

Toaster Oven Method - Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap pita in aluminum foil and heat for 10 minutes.

Microwave Method - Wrap pita in a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium-high for 15-second intervals until warm.

Oven Method - Preheat to 375°F (180°C). Wrap pita in aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. For a quick steam burst, sprinkle with water before wrapping.

Stove Top Method - Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Brush pita with olive oil and heat for 30-40 seconds per side.

Air Fryer Method - Preheat to 375°F (180°C). Brush pita with olive oil and heat for 3-5 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 - 20 minutes
Proofing Time: 1h 30min - 2h 30min
Cook Time: 3 - 5 Minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 288
Sugar: 2.4 g
Sodium: 440.7 mg
Fat: 6.1 g
Carbohydrates: 50.7 g
Protein: 7.2 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg