Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour (or half all-purpose + half whole wheat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 ½ tsp instant yeast (or 2 tsp active dry yeast)
- ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water (not hot!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional but adds flavor & softness)
Instructions
1️⃣ Activate the Yeast (if using active dry):
In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
(If using instant yeast, you can skip this step and mix directly.)
2️⃣ Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
Add in the yeast mixture (and olive oil if using).
Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead for 7–8 minutes (by hand or mixer) until soft and smooth.
3️⃣ First Rise:
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4️⃣ Shape the Pitas:
Punch down the dough and divide into 6–8 balls.
Roll each ball into a circle, about 6 inches wide and ¼ inch thick.
Keep them covered with a towel to prevent drying.
5️⃣ Cook the Pitas:
Option 1 – Stovetop (Quick & Easy):
- Heat a heavy skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Place one pita in the hot pan and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until puffed and golden brown.
Option 2 – Oven:
- Preheat to 475°F (245°C).
- Place rolled pitas on a hot baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Bake for 3–4 minutes, until puffed like a balloon!
(They’ll deflate slightly after cooling — that’s normal!)
6️⃣ Keep Soft:
Wrap cooked pitas in a clean kitchen towel as soon as they come off the heat. This traps steam and keeps them soft and pliable.
Serving Ideas
Stuff with falafel, grilled chicken, or veggies for sandwiches.
Use as mini pizza bases.
Serve warm with hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki.
Cut into triangles and toast into pita chips!
Tips for Perfect Puff
Roll evenly — not too thin or too thick.
Use high heat for that quick burst of steam.
Cover immediately after cooking to stay soft.
Storage
- Store in an airtight bag for 2–3 days at room temp.
- Freeze up to 2 months — reheat in the pan or oven before serving.