Recipe: Mediterranean Pita Bread 🥙
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 41 minutes
Total Time: 46 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 181.9 per serving
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (19 reviews)
Description:
Discover the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful homemade pita bread recipe, perfected through the ages and shared as part of the Great ‘Zaar Orphan Adoption of 2005. Enjoy the soft, fluffy texture and subtle yeast aroma as you savor each bite. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a snack, this versatile bread will transport your taste buds to distant shores.
Ingredients:
- 1 package active dry yeast
- 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a large mixing bowl, soften the yeast in warm water, allowing it to activate and bloom, creating a fragrant base for your pita bread. |
| 2 | Add 2 cups of flour, shortening, and salt to the yeast mixture. Beat at a low speed using an electric mixer for half a minute, ensuring the ingredients are well combined. |
| 3 | Increase the mixer speed to medium and continue beating for 3 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, with a slightly tacky consistency. |
| 4 | Gradually stir in the remaining flour, incorporating as much as possible with a spoon until the dough becomes too stiff to mix easily. |
| 5 | Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface, then knead in enough additional flour to form a soft, smooth dough that springs back when pressed. |
| 6 | Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place for about 15 minutes, allowing it to relax and rise slightly. |
| 7 | Divide the dough into 12 equal portions, shaping each into a smooth ball with floured hands. Cover them with a damp cloth and let them rest for 10 minutes. |
| 8 | Using your fingers, gently flatten each ball of dough to form discs. Cover them again and let them rest for an additional 10 minutes. |
| 9 | On a well-floured surface, roll out each piece of dough into a circle approximately 6 inches in diameter, turning them over once to ensure even thickness. |
| 10 | Avoid puncturing or tearing the dough as you work, using enough flour to prevent sticking. Place the rolled-out dough circles on a baking sheet. |
| 11 | Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and bake the pita bread, one sheet at a time, for about 3 minutes, or until the dough puffs up and sets softly. |
| 12 | Carefully turn the pita bread over with a spatula and continue baking for an additional 2 minutes, or until they turn a light golden brown color. |
| 13 | Repeat the baking process with the remaining dough, ensuring each batch is baked before starting on the next one. |
| 14 | Once baked, allow the pita bread to cool slightly before slicing them crosswise and filling the pockets with your favorite savory fillings, or cut them into wedges and pan-fry for a crispy texture, perfect for dipping into flavorful sauces. |
Tips:
- For best results, use warm water to activate the yeast, ensuring it dissolves completely and activates quickly.
- Kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic is crucial for achieving the desired texture in your pita bread.
- Keep the dough covered with a damp cloth during resting periods to prevent it from drying out and forming a crust.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even baking and consistent results.
- Customize your pita bread by adding herbs or spices to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Mediterranean Pita Bread 🌟🥙!
