Best Pita Bread Recipes

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CHEF JOHN'S PITA BREAD



Chef John's Pita Bread image

Unlike lots of other baked products which are better from a bakery, this is so far superior to the stuff you get at the grocery store, it's not even close. And in addition to being delicious to eat, it's also extremely easy to make!

Provided by Chef John

Categories     Bread     Yeast Bread Recipes     Flat Bread Recipes

Time 3h15m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (90 to 100 degrees F/32 to 38 degrees C)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
1 ¾ teaspoons salt
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, or more as needed
1 teaspoon olive oil, divided

Steps:

  • Place yeast into the work bowl of a stand mixer and add 1 cup warm water and 1 cup flour. Whisk together and let stand 15 to 20 minutes for mixture to rise and make a loose sponge. Mixture will bubble and foam.
  • Pour 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil and salt into sponge; add 1 3/4 cup flour. Mix at low speed, using a dough hook attachment, until dough is soft, supple, and slightly sticky. If dough sticks to the sides of the bowl, add up to 1/4 cup more flour, a little at a time.
  • Knead dough with machine on low speed until slightly springy and still soft, 5 to 6 minutes. Turn dough out onto a floured work surface and form into a ball.
  • Wipe inside of bowl with 1/4 teaspoon olive oil. Turn dough around in bowl to cover with a thin film of oil; cover bowl with foil and let sit until dough has doubled in size, about 2 hours.
  • Remove dough from bowl and place onto a floured work surface. Lightly pat into a flat shape about 1 inch thick. Use a knife to cut dough into 8 pieces.
  • Form each piece into a small round ball with a smooth top, pulling dough from the sides and tucking the ends underneath the bottom.
  • Cover dough balls with lightly oiled plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
  • Sprinkle a small amount of flour on a work surface and top of a dough ball; gently pat dough ball flat with your fingers, forming a flat, round bread about 1/4 inch thick. Let dough round rest for 5 minutes. Repeat with remaining dough balls.
  • Brush a cast-iron skillet with remaining 3/4 teaspoon olive oil and place over medium-high heat. Lay pita bread into hot skillet and cook until bread begins to puff up and bottom has brown spots and blisters, about 3 minutes. Flip, cook 2 more minutes, and flip back onto original side to cook for about 30 more seconds. Pita bread will begin to puff up and fill with hot air. Stack cooked breads on a plate; when cool enough to handle, break breads in half and open the pocket inside for stuffing.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 186.6 calories, Carbohydrate 33.1 g, Fat 3.6 g, Fiber 1.3 g, Protein 4.8 g, SaturatedFat 0.5 g, Sodium 510.9 mg, Sugar 0.1 g

HOMEMADE PITA BREAD



Homemade Pita Bread image

Is it worth making pita at home? Absolutely. Store-bought pita (like store-bought sandwich bread) is often several days old. Warm, fragrant home-baked pita is obviously superior, and there's a bit of a thrill when the breads puff up in the oven. And once you get the hang of it, it's not difficult. For the best flavor, try to get freshly milled whole-wheat flour. Even though only a little is called for in the recipe, it makes a difference.

Provided by David Tanis

Categories     appetizer, side dish

Time 2h

Yield 8 six-inch diameter breads

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon sugar
35 grams whole-wheat flour (1/4 cup), preferably freshly milled
310 grams unbleached all-purposed flour (2 1/2 cups)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps:

  • Make sponge: Put 1 cup lukewarm water in a large mixing bowl. Add yeast and sugar. Stir to dissolve. Add the whole-wheat flour and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and whisk together. Put bowl in a warm (not hot) place, uncovered, until mixture is frothy and bubbling, about 15 minutes.
  • Add salt, olive oil and nearly all remaining all-purpose flour (reserve 1/2 cup). With a wooden spoon or a pair of chopsticks, stir until mixture forms a shaggy mass. Dust with a little reserved flour, then knead in bowl for 1 minute, incorporating any stray bits of dry dough.
  • Turn dough onto work surface. Knead lightly for 2 minutes, until smooth. Cover and let rest 10 minutes, then knead again for 2 minutes. Try not to add too much reserved flour; the dough should be soft and a bit moist. (At this point, dough may refrigerated in a large zippered plastic bag for several hours or overnight. Bring dough back to room temperature, knead into a ball and proceed with recipe.)
  • Clean the mixing bowl and put dough back in it. Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with a towel. Put bowl in a warm (not hot) place. Leave until dough has doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  • Heat oven to 475 degrees. On bottom shelf of oven, place a heavy-duty baking sheet, large cast-iron pan or ceramic baking tile. Punch down dough and divide into 8 pieces of equal size. Form each piece into a little ball. Place dough balls on work surface, cover with a damp towel and leave for 10 minutes.
  • Remove 1 ball (keeping others covered) and press into a flat diskc with rolling pin. Roll to a 6-inch circle, then to an 8-inch diameter, about 1/8 inch thick, dusting with flour if necessary. (The dough will shrink a bit while baking.)
  • Carefully lift the dough circle and place quickly on hot baking sheet. After 2 minutes the dough should be nicely puffed. Turn over with tongs or spatula and bake 1 minute more. The pita should be pale, with only a few brown speckles. Transfer warm pita to a napkin-lined basket and cover so bread stays soft. Repeat with the rest of the dough balls.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 189, UnsaturatedFat 3 grams, Carbohydrate 33 grams, Fat 4 grams, Fiber 2 grams, Protein 5 grams, SaturatedFat 1 gram, Sodium 110 milligrams, Sugar 0 grams

GREEK GRILLED CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE SALAD WITH WARM PITA BREAD FOR WRAPPING



Greek Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Salad with Warm Pita Bread for Wrapping image

Provided by Rachael Ray : Food Network

Categories     main-dish

Time 25m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 1/3 to 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast tenders, 2 packages from meat case
Salt and pepper
8 pita breads
1 ripe lemon, zested and juiced
3 tablespoon red wine vinegar, eyeball it
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, eyeball it
2 tablespoons fresh chopped oregano, 4 stems, stripped of leaves and chopped
3 cloves garlic, chopped
2 hearts Romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, coarsely chopped
8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
2 vine ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
1/3 seedless or English cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, chopped
1/2 cup flat leaf parsley leaves, a couple of handfuls, chopped

Steps:

  • Preheat grill pan over high heat. Place chicken in shallow dish and season with salt and pepper.
  • Preheat oven to 275 degrees F. Wrap pita breads in foil. Place in warm oven and heat until dinner is served.
  • Combine lemon zest, juice and vinegar in a bowl and whisk in oil. Add oregano, garlic and whisk again to combine into dressing. Pour half the dressing over chicken tenders. Turn tenders in dressing to coat.
  • Combine remaining salad ingredients in a bowl. Pour remaining dressing over salad and toss well. The salad should be very lightly dressed. Season salad with salt and pepper and transfer to a large serving platter.
  • Grill tenders 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Transfer hot tenders to the salad lined serving platter. Remove pitas from oven and unwrap. Cut pitas in half and arrange around the edge of platter.
  • To serve, each person can pile grilled chicken and veggies into pita halves, wrap up on either side and enjoy!

TRADITIONAL PITA BREAD



Traditional Pita Bread image

My husband taught me how to make pita bread when we were first dating. He always has his eye out for good recipes. -Lynne Hartke, Chandler, Arizona

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 25m

Yield 6 pita breads.

Number Of Ingredients 4

1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
1-1/4 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
2 teaspoons salt
3 to 3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Stir in salt and enough flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Do not let rise. , Divide dough into six pieces; knead each for 1 minute. Roll each into a 5-in. circle. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45 minutes. Preheat oven to 500°. , Place upside down on greased baking sheets. Bake until puffed and lightly browned, 5-10 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 231 calories, Fat 1g fat (0 saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 789mg sodium, Carbohydrate 48g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 7g protein.

PITA BREAD



Pita Bread image

Fresh homemade pita -- made with half white, half whole wheat flour -- is easy to make and delicious. Pitas are best when baked on a baking stone or on unglazed quarry tiles; you can also place them on a baking sheet.

Provided by Food Network

Time 4h

Yield 16 pitas about 8 inches in dia

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 teaspoon dry yeast
2 1/2 cups warm water (approximately 105 degrees F)
2 cups whole wheat flour
About 4 cups unbleached all-purpose or bread flour
1 tablespoon salt
1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps:

  • You will need a large bread bowl, a rolling pin, and unglazed quarry tiles or several baking sheets, or alternatively a castiron or other heavy skillet or griddle at least 9 inches in diameter.
  • Sprinkle the yeast over the warm water in a large bread bowl. Stir to dissolve. Add whole wheat flour, one cup at a time, then 1 cup white flour. Stir 100 times (one minute) in the same direction to activate the gluten in the flour. Let this sponge rest for at least 10 minutes or as long as 2 hours.
  • Sprinkle salt over the sponge and stir in the olive oil. Mix well. Add white flour, one cup at a time. When the dough is too stiff to stir, turn it out onto a lightly floured bread board and knead for 8 to 10 minutes, until dough is smooth and elastic. Return the dough to a lightly oiled bread bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise until at least double in size, approximately 1 1/2 hours. Gently punch down. Dough can be made ahead to this point and then stored, covered, in the refrigerator for 5 days or less.
  • If at this time you want to save the dough in the refrigerator for baking later, simply wrap it in a plastic bag that is at least three times the size of the dough, pull the bag together, and secure it just at the opening of the bag. This will give the dough a chance to expand when it is in the refrigerator (which it will do). From day to day, simply cut off the amount of dough you need and keep the rest in the refrigerator, for up to one week. The dough will smell slightly fermented after a few days, but this simply improves the taste of the bread. Dough should be brought to room temperature before baking.
  • This amount of dough will make approximately 16 pitas if rolled out into circles approximately 8 to 9 inches in diameter and less than 1/4-inch thick. You can also of course make smaller breads. Size and shape all depend on you, but for breads of this dimension the following baking tips apply:
  • Place unglazed quarry tiles, or a large baking stone or two baking sheets, on a rack in the bottom third of your oven, leaving a one inch gap all around to allow air to circulate. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Divide dough in half, then set half aside, covered, while you work with the rest. Divide dough into eight equal pieces and flatten each piece with lightly floured hands. Roll out each piece to a circle 8 to 9 inches in diameter. You may wish to roll out all eight before starting to bake. Cover rolled out breads, but do not stack.
  • Bake 2 at a time (or more if your oven is larger) directly on quarry tiles or baking sheets. Bake each bread for 3 or 4 minutes, until the bread has gone into a full "balloon" or until it is starting to turn lightly golden, whichever happens first. If there are seams or dry bits of dough - or for a variety of other reasons - your bread may not go into a full "balloon". Don't worry, it will still taste great. The more you bake pitas the more you will become familiar with all the little tricks and pitfalls, and your breads will more consistently "balloon." But even then, if you're like us, it won't always "balloon" fully and you won't mind because the taste will still be wonderful. When baked, remove, place on a rack for about five minutes to let cool slightly, then wrap breads in a large kitchen towel (this will keep the breads soft). When first half of the dough has been rolled out and baked, repeat for rest of dough, or store in refrigerator for later use, as described above. You can also divide the dough into more, smaller pieces if you wish, to give you smaller breads.

PITA BREAD



Pita Bread image

Provided by Tyler Florence

Time 3h15m

Yield 8 pitas

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 package active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
11/2 cups warm water
1 teaspoon salt
31/2 cups bread flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon olive oil

Steps:

  • In the bowl of a heavy-duty electric mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water; stir to blend. Let the yeast stand until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  • Stir in the salt. Add the flour, a little at a time, mixing at the lowest speed until all the flour has been incorporated and the dough gathers into a ball; this should take about 4 minutes.
  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until it's smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turn it over to coat, and cover with plastic wrap. Allow to rise until double in size, about 1 1/2 hours.
  • Place a large pizza stone on the lower oven rack, preheat the oven (and stone) to 500 degrees F.
  • Punch the dough down, divide it into 8 pieces, and gather each piece into a ball; keeping all of them lightly floured and covered while you work. Allow the balls of dough to rest, covered, for 15 minutes so they will be easier to roll out.
  • Using a rolling pin, roll each dough ball into a circle that is about 8-inches in diameter and 1/4-inch thick. Make sure the circle is totally smooth, with no creases or seams in the dough, which can prevent the pitas from puffing up properly. Cover the disks as you roll them out, but do not stack them up. Put 2 pita rounds at a time on the hot pizza stone and bake for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the bread puffs up like a balloon and is pale golden. Watch closely; they bake fast. Remove the bread from the oven and place on a rack to cool for 5 minutes; they will naturally deflate, leaving a pocket in the center. Wrap the pitas in a large kitchen towel to keep them soft.

GREEK GRILLED CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE SALAD WITH WARM PITA BREAD F



Greek Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Salad With Warm Pita Bread F image

This came from one of my Rachael Ray cookbooks. I tried it a couple of summers ago and it's one of our favorites. The whole family loves this. Very flavorful!

Provided by cookin4six

Categories     < 30 Mins

Time 25m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 1/3-1 1/2 lbs chicken breast tenders, 2 packages from meat case
salt and pepper
8 pita breads
1 lemon, juice and zest of, ripe
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, eyeball it
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, eyeball it
2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano, 4 stems, stripped of leaves and chopped
3 garlic cloves, chopped
2 romaine lettuce hearts, chopped
1/2 cup pitted kalamata olive, coarsely chopped
8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
2 vine ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
1/3 seedless cucumber or 1/3 English cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, chopped
1/2 cup flat leaf parsley, a couple of handfuls, chopped

Steps:

  • Preheat grill pan over high heat.
  • Place chicken in shallow dish and season with salt and pepper.
  • Preheat oven to 275°F.
  • Wrap pita breads in foil.
  • Place in warm oven and heat until dinner is served.
  • Combine lemon zest, juice and vinegar in a bowl and whisk in oil.
  • Add oregano, garlic and whisk again to combine into dressing.
  • Pour half the dressing over chicken tenders.
  • Turn tenders in dressing to coat.
  • Combine remaining salad ingredients in a bowl.
  • Pour remaining dressing over salad and toss well.
  • The salad should be very lightly dressed.
  • Season salad with salt and pepper and transfer to a large serving platter.
  • Grill tenders 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Transfer hot tenders to the salad lined serving platter.
  • Remove pitas from oven and unwrap.
  • Cut pitas in half and arrange around the edge of platter.
  • To serve, each person can pile grilled chicken and veggies into pita halves, wrap up on either side and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 997.4, Fat 46.1, SaturatedFat 13.8, Cholesterol 141.2, Sodium 1593.1, Carbohydrate 87.9, Fiber 11.4, Sugar 10.8, Protein 59.7

GRILLED CHICKEN, GREEK-STYLE, WITH SALAD AND WARM PITA BREAD FOR



Grilled Chicken, Greek-Style, With Salad and Warm Pita Bread For image

This is a family pleasing dinner recipe, adapted from a Rachael Ray recipe. It's pretty easy to make and gives you all those yummy Greek flavors.

Provided by LifeIsGood

Categories     Chicken Breast

Time 30m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken, cut into large strips
kosher salt
fresh ground black pepper, to taste
8 pita breads
1 lemon, the zest and juice are needed
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh oregano, stripped of leaves and chopped
2 -4 garlic cloves, chopped (amt depends on your love for garlic!)
2 romaine lettuce hearts, chopped
1/2 cup kalamata olive, pitted, coarsely chopped
8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
3 vine-ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
1/2 English cucumber, seedless kind, diced
1/2 red onion, chopped
1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Steps:

  • Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
  • Preheat oven to 200 degrees F. Wrap the pita breads in foil, and put in the warm oven until dinner is ready.
  • Put the chicken into a shallow dish with sides.Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides, to taste.
  • Mix the lemon zest and juice with the vinegar and then whisk in the oil. Add the oregano, garlic and whisk it again to make sure it's combined well. Pour about half of this dressing over the chicken strips and turn them to coat.
  • Combine all the veggies in a big bowl and toss well with that leftover dressing (don't pour it all in at once. add some and toss the salad and repeat until you reach the right amt of dressing for your liking). Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Grill the chicken strips for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken strips to your salad bowl/dish when they are cooked through.
  • Remove the pitas from your oven and unwrap. Cut pitas in half and then arrange them around your salad bowl/dish.
  • To serve, each person can pile on the grilled chicken and veggies onto their pita and wrap it up!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 1033.7, Fat 48.8, SaturatedFat 14.3, Cholesterol 162.8, Sodium 1671.7, Carbohydrate 89.3, Fiber 12.1, Sugar 11.8, Protein 61.3

GARLIC PITA BREAD BITES



Garlic Pita Bread Bites image

Great and easy to make--as well as delicious. Everyone goes crazy about these when I make them.

Provided by LISAREBBECHI

Categories     Appetizers and Snacks     Garlic Bread Recipes

Time 25m

Yield 20

Number Of Ingredients 5

1 (10 ounce) package pita bread, cut in half
3 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon crushed garlic
1 teaspoon dried Italian-style seasoning
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  • Open pita bread halves and roughly cut into approximately 2 inch pieces. Arrange on a medium baking sheet.
  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and mix in garlic and dried Italian-style seasoning. Pour the mixture over pita bread pieces.
  • Sprinkle bread with Parmesan cheese, adjusting the amount as desired. Bake in the preheated oven 10 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 56.4 calories, Carbohydrate 7.9 g, Cholesterol 5 mg, Fat 2 g, Fiber 0.3 g, Protein 1.5 g, SaturatedFat 1.2 g, Sodium 95 mg, Sugar 0.2 g

WHOLE WHEAT PITA BREAD



Whole Wheat Pita Bread image

After a trip to Israel, I fell in love with the rustic pita breads enjoyed with just about every meal. These nutritious whole wheat pitas are a favorite with young and old alike.

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 50m

Yield 1 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
2 cups warm water (110° to 115°), divided
1/2 teaspoon honey
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
5 to 6 cups whole wheat flour
All-purpose flour
Cornmeal

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water. Add honey; let stand for 5 minutes. Add the oil, salt 3 cups of whole wheat flour and remaining water. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough whole wheat flour to form a soft dough. , Turn onto a surface dusted with all-purpose flour; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-1/2 hours. , Punch dough down; let rest for 10 minutes. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide dough into 12 pieces. Shape each into a ball. Knead each ball for 1 minute. Cover and let rest for 20 minutes. , Grease baking sheets and sprinkle with cornmeal. Roll each ball into an 8-in. circle. Place on prepared baking sheets. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes. , Bake at 475° for 8-10 minutes or until browned. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool. To serve, cut in half and split open. Stuff with fillings of your choice.

Nutrition Facts :

PEPPY'S PITA BREAD



Peppy's Pita Bread image

It's easy to make homemade pita-style bread in your own oven using this easy-to-follow recipe.

Provided by Sandy

Categories     Bread     Yeast Bread Recipes     Flat Bread Recipes

Time 3h20m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 ⅛ cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 ½ teaspoons white sugar
1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast

Steps:

  • Place all ingredients in bread pan of your bread machine, select Dough setting and start. When dough has risen long enough, machine will beep.
  • Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently roll and stretch dough into a 12 inch rope. With a sharp knife, divide dough into 8 pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball. With a rolling pin, roll each ball into a 6 to 7 inch circle. Set aside on a lightly floured countertop. cover with a towel. Let pitas rise about 30 minutes until slightly puffy.
  • Preheat oven to 500 degrees F (260 degrees C). Place 2 or 3 pitas on a wire cake rack. Place cake rack directly on oven rack. Bake pitas 4 to 5 minutes until puffed and tops begin to brown. Remove from oven and immediately place pitas in a sealed brown paper bag or cover them with a damp kitchen towel until soft. Once pitas a softened, either cut in half or split top edge for half or whole pitas. They can be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for several days or in the freezer for 1 or 2 months.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 191.1 calories, Carbohydrate 36.8 g, Fat 2.2 g, Fiber 1.4 g, Protein 5.1 g, SaturatedFat 0.3 g, Sodium 293 mg, Sugar 0.9 g

PITA POCKET BREAD (BREAD MACHINE)



Pita Pocket Bread (Bread Machine) image

So easy to make your own pita pockets, and even EASIER to do it in the bread machine! Kids love these for car trips or picnics; can't help but feel adventurous with one of these in the lunch box! NOTE: If you don't have a bread machine, you can STILL make this recipe...see DIRECTIONS at the bottom. COOKING TIME includes rising time

Provided by Debber

Categories     Yeast Breads

Time 1h23m

Yield 10 pockets, 10 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 1/3 cups warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
2 cups white flour
1 1/3 cups whole wheat flour
2 1/2 teaspoons yeast

Steps:

  • Place the above ingredients into the bread machine according to owner's manual specifications (mine does wet ingredients first).
  • Program for DOUGH or MANUAL.
  • After the program is completed, divide dough into 10 equal pieces; shape each into a smooth ball; place five on each baking sheet.
  • Let rise for 20 minutes while oven preheats to 500; flatten puffy balls gently into a 6-inch disk.
  • Bake for five minutes (tops will be puffed and beginning to brown).
  • Cut each circle in half to form two pockets.
  • Fill with your favorite sandwich fixin's: ham, turkey, chicken salad, lettuce, sprouts, cheese and grapes.
  • TRADITIONAL BREAD-MAKING: In a mixing bowl, mix water, sugar and yeast; allow to foam for 3-5 minutes; add oil and salt, mixing well; mix white & wholewheat flours together in a separate bowl, then add to liquids, mixing until well-blended. Place dough-ball in a well-greased bowl, allow to rise in a warm spot until doubled in volume. Continue from Step #3 above.

GREEK PITA BREAD



Greek Pita Bread image

This recipe for Greek pita bread can be used for 'souvlaki' and 'gyros' sandwiches, Found on a greek website. 2 hours includes rising time

Provided by Poppy

Categories     Yeast Breads

Time 2h30m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 1/4 teaspoons dry yeast
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
4 cups all-purpose white flour
1 1/2 cups water
1 tablespoon olive oil

Steps:

  • Combine the yeast and sugar in a small bowl, add 1/2 cup of the warm water and let it stand for 10 minutes to proof and ferment it.
  • Dissolve the salt in the remaining warm water.
  • Put the flour in a large mixing bowl, making a well in the middle and put the dissolved yeast and salt water into it.
  • With your hands, blend it into a dough.
  • You may need a bit more or less water depending on your flour.
  • Knead the dough in the bowl with your fists for 10-15 minutes or until it is smooth.
  • Pour the oil over the dough and knead it again until the oil is absorbed.
  • Cover the dough in the bowl with a towel and set it in a draft free area to rise to double it's bulk (1-2 hours), then punch it down and knead it again for a few minutes.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  • Cut pieces of dough, egg size or larger, depending on the size of the pita desired, shape them into balls with your hands and roll them out over a lightly floured board or pastry cloth to 1/4 inch thickness.
  • Set 2 or 3 pites on a lightly oiled cookies sheet and bake them on the lower rack 2 to 3 minutes each side.
  • Pitas should be white and soft.
  • Wrap the baked pitas in a clean towel until they are cool, then store them in plastic bags to prevent them from drying out.
  • When you are ready to use them, heat a bit of oil in a shallow skillet and fry them a minute or so on each side, or until golden brown.
  • Use them immediately, because they get hard when they dry out.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 336.2, Fat 3.2, SaturatedFat 0.5, Sodium 779.4, Carbohydrate 66.3, Fiber 2.6, Sugar 2.3, Protein 9.2

EASY PITA BREAD



Easy Pita Bread image

Think this came from a MasterCook export. I have never tried making them but this recipe seems easy enough. Prep time includes rising time. Have fun!

Provided by Bitsie

Categories     Yeast Breads

Time 3h4m

Yield 16-32 rounds

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 cups warm water
1 teaspoon sugar
1 package dry yeast (or 1 tb)
5 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons salt

Steps:

  • In mixing bowl, combine water and sugar; sprinkle yeast and let stand for 10 minutes or until dissolved and creamy.
  • Using electric mixer, beat in 2 c.of the flour, oil and salt; beat for about 3 minutes or until smooth, scraping down side of bowl from time to time.
  • With wooden spoon, beat in enough of the remaining flour to make stiff dough.
  • Turn out onto lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
  • Place dough in lightly greased bowl, turning to grease all over.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in bulk.
  • Divide dough into 16 or 32 pieces.
  • On lightly floured surface, roll each piece into 7" or 4" rounds.
  • Cover and let rise for 15 minutes or until slightly risen.
  • Meanwhile, heat ungreased baking sheet on lowest rack in 500 degree oven (240 C).
  • Using floured metal spatula, quickly transfer 2 or 3 pita rounds to heated baking sheet; bake for 3 or 4 minutes or until puffed and light golden around edges.
  • Repeat with remaining pita rounds.
  • Let cool between damp tea towels.
  • Pitas will collapse and soften slightly, but pocket will remain.
  • (Alternatively, if crisp pitas are desired, let cool on racks) Pitas can be stored in plastic bags in freezer for up to 1 month.
  • Makes 16 7" pitas or 32 4" pitas.

HEALTHY WHOLE WHEAT PITA BREAD (NO OIL OR SUGAR)



Healthy Whole Wheat Pita Bread (No Oil or Sugar) image

Just 4 ingredients...and the salt is optional! Please note that the cooking time includes a 30 minute rising. The kneading times given are for an electric mixer (I use my Bosch), so it will take a little longer if you do it by hand. You can easily turn these into herbed pitas by simply adding in some of your favorite herbs (fresh or dried) while you're kneading the dough. EDITED TO ADD: You need to add only the amount of flour necessary to clean the sides of the bowl. So, you might not need all of the flour listed. Also, this is a flatbread, so it will not rise a lot - not at all like regular yeast bread. It is also important to preheat the oven and just before you put the pitas in, flip them over. That is what causes them to puff. This recipe works very well, we use it all of the time and love it! But, it is one of those that really needs to be followed step by step. You're welcome to zmail me if you have any trouble!!

Provided by Annisette

Categories     Yeast Breads

Time 55m

Yield 10 pitas

Number Of Ingredients 4

4 cups whole wheat flour (or 2 cups whole wheat flour and 2 cups all-purpose flour)
1 tablespoon dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water (120-130F degrees)
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 500°F.
  • Sift together 2 cups of flour and the yeast.
  • Add water and salt and mix well.
  • Gradually add in the remaining flour just until the dough begins to clean the sides of the bowl. Once this happens, stop adding flour (so, you might not use all the flour the recipe calls for.).
  • Knead the dough for about 4 or 5 minutes, or until dough is smooth and elastic. (While you're kneading, you can get creative and add in some herbs or spices, but only if you want to do that). Be careful not to over-knead the dough.
  • Form dough into 10 balls.
  • On a floured surface, roll each ball into a 5-6 inch circle, about 1/4 inch thick. (Be sure to sprinkle a little flour on both sides to prevent sticking).
  • Place on a non-stick baking sheet and allow to rise 30 minutes, or until slightly raised.
  • Just before you place the pan in the oven, flip each pita over on its other side.
  • Bake on the bottom rack of the oven for 5 minutes. (The instant hot heat will help them puff up).
  • When the pitas come out of the oven they will be hard, but they will soften as the cool.
  • Store them, while they're still warm, in plastic baggies or an airtight container.
  • Cut the pitas in half crosswise and stuff with your favorite fillings (beans and rice, taco fixings, thick stews, curries - anything goes).
  • Pitas can be reheated in a 350°F oven or in the microwave.

QUICK AND EASY SYRIAN-LEBANESE-POCKET-PITA BREAD!



Quick and Easy Syrian-Lebanese-Pocket-Pita Bread! image

I've tried lots of recipes and this one is my family's favorite! Using instant yeast, you can make 20-22 "pitettes" or 8 medium bread rounds in about 90 minutes, including baking time! There is no fat or sugar added (except for the sugars in the dry milk powder).

Provided by ValFosburgh

Categories     Yeast Breads

Time 1h30m

Yield 20-22 Mini pita rounds, 8-10 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 5

3 1/4 cups bread flour
1 teaspoon instant yeast (not active dry)
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 tablespoons instant dry milk powder
1 cup water

Steps:

  • Mix all of the dry ingredients together in a large sturdy bowl (hard plastic or stainless steel). Form a little well in the center.
  • Heat the water in a microwave safe dish for one minute.
  • Pour the water into the flour well and mix the ingredients with a spatula as far you can. Place a dish of cool water in a bowl next to you as you begin to knead by hand.
  • Knead the dough in the bowl by hand for at least 5-10 minutes, dipping your fingertips into the bowl of water as you knead. This will help create a smooth, elastic finish. You know your dough is ready when the surface is smooth and doesn't have pock-marks. The dough will feel slightly sticky as you knead it, but should not stick to your hands.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and cut with a knife (or separate by hand) into equal sized pieces - 8 for larger rounds or 20 for small pitettes. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and lay on clean dish cloth or floured cutting board or surface, keeping them covered with another cloth.
  • Once all of the balls are rolled and resting, cover them with a clean cloth and lightly pat the cloth with water on your finger tips to keep them moist, or spray lightly with a water mister. Let the balls rest for 30 minutes.
  • After 30 minutes rest, preheat oven to 450 degrees with a baking stone or pizza pan on bottom rack inserted.
  • As the oven preheats, roll each ball on a lightly floured surface into a flat round, no thicker than 1/4". The thinner the round, the better your pocket. Turn them over to roll them, trying to keep the round as best you can. If the dough sticks to the rolling pin, dip your finger tips in a little flour and coat the surface of the round as you roll. Make sure the edges are rolled out equally and not thicker than the center. Lay each round on the cloth or floured surface to rest again as the oven preheats. Keep them in the order your rolled them.
  • Once the oven is ready, bake each round (or several at a time depending on size) on your baking stone, being careful to place them BOTTOM SIDE UP for 90 seconds to 2 minutes. The rounds should start to bubble on top and will "poof" up with the pocket. Once the pocket is formed, remove them from the oven and place onto clean surface to cool. The bottoms will be just starting to brown as you remove them from the oven.
  • Once completely cooled, they can be stored in a freezer bag and frozen until ready to use - they will thaw quickly on the counter.

EASY PITA BREAD PIZZA



Easy Pita Bread Pizza image

I once had a craving for a pizza, but I didn't have the things to make pizza dough, so I got this idea! A good recipe for kids, too. I use pocket-less pitas we buy from Indian grocery, but I'm sure regular will work. Note: I edited this recipe by making more exact ingredient amounts, sorry about the previous vagueness, I posted this recipe back when I was just 10 or 11. :)

Provided by Sweet Chef

Categories     Lunch/Snacks

Time 10m

Yield 1 mini pizza, 1 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 5

1 pita bread
2 tablespoons spaghetti or 2 tablespoons pizza sauce
1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
spices (oregano, basil, garlic powder) or dried herbs (oregano, basil, garlic powder)
olive oil (optional)

Steps:

  • Brush on a little olive oil on the pita.
  • Spread sauce on top of the pita.
  • Sprinkle on the shredded cheese.
  • Sprinkle on pinches of desired herbs and spices, and add any toppings you'd like.
  • Place on baking sheet, bake for 5-7 minutes at 400°, or until cheese is melted (times may vary).
  • Slice with pizza cutter and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 249, Fat 7, SaturatedFat 3.8, Cholesterol 22.1, Sodium 497.2, Carbohydrate 34, Fiber 1.3, Sugar 1.1, Protein 11.7

HOMEMADE PITA BREAD



Homemade Pita Bread image

Provided by Michael Symon : Food Network

Categories     side-dish

Time 10h

Yield 8 pitas

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 1/3 cups warm water, around 110 degrees F
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
3 3/4 cups bread flour, plus more for dusting (see Cook's Note)
4 1/2 teaspoons olive oil, plus more for spraying or brushing
2 teaspoons kosher salt

Steps:

  • Mix together the water, honey and yeast and allow the yeast to bloom until very foamy, 5 to 10 minutes.
  • To a mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, add the flour, olive oil and salt. Turn the mixer on low to combine. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix on low speed until a smooth dough mass forms, 2 to 3 minutes. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl and mix for 1 more minute. Portion and shape the dough into 8 even balls, roughly 4 ounces each. Place on a sheet tray and spray or brush the tops with olive oil. Tightly wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
  • The next day, allow the dough to temper back to room temperature for 1 hour.
  • Set up your grill for high heat. If using a charcoal grill, distribute the coals evenly on the edges of the grill, leaving the middle with no coals. If using a gas grill, heat one side only. Allow the temperature to reach 475 degrees. Place a small saucepot with water on the grill for extra moisture.
  • Place a flat cast-iron pan onto the grill grate to preheat.
  • On a very lightly floured surface, roll each pita ball into an 8-inch round and allow to rest for 10 minutes before baking. Place a dough round onto the hot pan, close the grill and bake for 1 minute. Flip and bake for another minute, then remove to a ziptop bag. This will ensure the pita stay moist and fresh. Repeat with the remaining dough rounds. Serve!
  • To make in the oven: Place a flat cast-iron pan and a small pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven and preheat the oven to 475 degrees F.
  • Place the rolled dough onto the hot pan and bake for 1 minute. Flip and bake for another minute.

PITA BREAD FOR BREAD MACHINE



Pita Bread for Bread Machine image

I found this stuffed in my recipe box. I'm not sure where I found it, but I decided to try this with Gyros. These were delicious! The recipe wasn't specific on the temperature of the water, & after I had all of the ingredients in the pan, I remembered that I should have used warm water (120-130 degrees F). But I goofed & used cold water. I thought I'd try it anyways & if it didn't work I'd just make another batch. But I got lucky, because it raised just fine. I also used all-purpose flour. This was my first time making pita bread, so for any of you who are new to making pitas as well, here are some tips for rolling them out. If you roll them out to 6-7 inches, they do not puff very much & you can use them like a tortilla. However, if you roll them a little smaller (some of mine just didn't want to stretch to 6 inches) & have them a little thicker (not too much) they puff up & you can cut them in half for pita pockets. For some wierd reason, this really impressed me! Note: If you use a stone pan to bake these, bake for 4 minutes & do not turn. *Prep time varies for all bread machines, so I didn't list that part. My prep time was 1 hour, 20 minutes.

Provided by Legna

Categories     Yeast Breads

Time 24m

Yield 12 pitas, 12 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 cup water
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cups bread flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast or 1 tablespoon bread machine yeast

Steps:

  • Add ingredients, in order listed.
  • Select dough cycle.
  • When cycle is complete, remove dough.
  • Divide into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
  • Cover with a damp towel and let rest 10 minutes.
  • Grease a baking sheet. Set aside.
  • On a floured surface, roll each ball of dough into 6-7 inch circles.
  • Place 2 circles of dough on prepared pan.
  • Bake 450 degrees, 2 minutes. Turn over and bake 2 minutes longer.
  • Continue baking 2 at a time.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 147.9, Fat 3.7, SaturatedFat 0.5, Sodium 292.3, Carbohydrate 24.6, Fiber 1.1, Sugar 0.4, Protein 3.6

GARLIC-OREGANO GRILLED PITA BREAD



Garlic-Oregano Grilled Pita Bread image

Provided by Gina Marie Miraglia Eriquez

Categories     Bread     Garlic     Side     Kid-Friendly     Quick & Easy     Backyard BBQ     Family Reunion     Grill     Grill/Barbecue     Potluck     Oregano     Gourmet     Sugar Conscious     Kidney Friendly     Vegan     Vegetarian     Pescatarian     Dairy Free     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free     No Sugar Added     Kosher     Small Plates

Yield Makes 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 5

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, smashed
2 tablespoons finely chopped oregano
6 (6-to 8-inch) pocketless pita bread rounds
Kosher salt to taste

Steps:

  • Heat oil in a small heavy skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Cook garlic, turning once, until pale golden, about 1 minute. Discard garlic and remove skillet from heat, then stir in oregano.
  • Prepare grill for direct-heat cooking over medium-hot charcoal (medium-high heat for gas); see Grilling Procedure .
  • Oil grill rack. Grill pitas, 3 at a time, covered only if using a gas grill, turning once, until grill marks appear, about 2 minutes total per batch. Transfer to a cutting board and brush both sides with garlic-oregano oil. Cut pitas into wedges. Sprinkle with kosher salt. Serve warm.

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