Name: Pita Bread Recipe: Soft and Versatile
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C); 2 tsp active dry yeast; 1 tsp granulated sugar; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 tbsp olive oil; Optional: Fresh parsley (sesame seeds); Suggested Pairings: Hummus (sparkling water)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Pita Bread is a classic, versatile bread, perfect for gatherings, lunches, or meal prep. This soft, pillowy flatbread, with its signature pocket for stuffing or golden crust for dipping, delivers a mild, yeasty flavor with a tender, chewy texture. Presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or served with hummus, this Pita Bread recipe offers a rustic, inviting aesthetic that elevates any spread. This recipe provides a simple homemade version with accessible ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing bread that brings warm, Mediterranean-inspired charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Pita Bread:

1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 tsp active dry yeast
1 tsp granulated sugar
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for brushing)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh parsley, thyme, or sesame seeds
Suggested Accompaniments: Hummus, tzatziki, falafel
Suggested Pairings: Sparkling water, iced tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Large mixing bowl, rolling pin, baking sheet or pizza stone, kitchen towel, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Make Dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Taste and Adjust: Pinch off a small piece of dough (safe due to cooked end product) and taste; adjust with a pinch more salt if needed to ensure a balanced flavor.
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Shape Pitas: Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten and roll into a 6-inch circle (about 1/4-inch thick) on a lightly floured surface.
Second Rise: Place the dough circles on a lightly floured surface, cover with a towel, and let rest for 15–20 minutes.
Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) with a baking sheet or pizza stone inside for at least 45 minutes.
Bake Pitas: Place 2–3 dough circles on the hot baking sheet or stone. Bake for 8–10 minutes until puffed and lightly golden. Flip halfway for even baking if not puffing.
Cool Slightly: Transfer pitas to a clean towel and cover to keep soft. Brush lightly with olive oil if desired.
Serve: Arrange pitas on a white ceramic platter. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley, thyme, or sesame seeds. Serve with hummus, tzatziki, falafel, sparkling water, or iced tea.

Tips for Better Pita Bread

Use warm (not hot) water to activate yeast properly; too hot kills yeast, too cold slows rising.
Taste the dough before shaping to ensure a balanced, slightly savory flavor; adjust sparingly.
Roll dough evenly to 1/4-inch thickness for consistent puffing and pocket formation.
Preheat the baking surface thoroughly for optimal puffing and texture.
Present on a white ceramic platter to highlight the golden crust and garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare dough up to 1 day in advance; store in the fridge after the first rise, then bring to room temperature before shaping.
Keep pitas covered after baking to maintain softness and prevent drying.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with herbs or serve with dips for a rustic, inviting pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Pita Bread: Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum and ensure yeast is gluten-free.
Vegan Pita Bread: Naturally vegan; ensure sugar and yeast are vegan-friendly.
Whole Wheat Pita Bread: Replace 1 cup all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Herbed Pita Bread: Add 1 tsp dried oregano or rosemary to the dough or sprinkle with za’atar before baking.
Garlic Pita Bread: Brush baked pitas with a mixture of olive oil and 1 minced garlic clove.
Spiced Pita Bread: Add 1/2 tsp ground cumin or paprika to the dough for a subtle kick.
Smaller Pita Bread: Divide dough into 12 pieces for smaller, 4-inch pitas; bake for 6–8 minutes.
Sweet Pita Bread: Add 1 tbsp honey to the dough and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after baking.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store pitas in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to soften.
Freeze baked pitas in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature and reheat to refresh.
Serve warm or at room temperature for the best soft, pillowy texture.
Use as a sandwich wrap, dipper for hummus, or base for mini pizzas.
Pair with sparkling water or iced tea to complement the mild, yeasty flavors.
Present on a white ceramic platter with garnishes for a rustic, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (1 pita each):

Calories: 180 kcal
Total Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 31g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 5g
Vitamin A: 0% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 2% Daily Value
Iron: 10% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions. Low in fat; moderate in carbs.

Conclusion

This Pita Bread recipe delivers a soft, versatile flatbread perfect for gatherings or meal prep, transforming simple ingredients into a Mediterranean favorite. Its easy preparation and rustic presentation make it a go-to. The pillowy texture and mild flavor delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing versatility.