Ingredients
2 1/4 tsp Active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup Warm water (105-115°F)
1 tsp Granulated sugar
3 cups All-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 1/2 tsp Salt
2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is frothy and activated.
Step 2: Add 1 cup of the flour and the olive oil to the yeast mixture. Whisk until a loose batter forms.
Step 3: Add the salt and the remaining flour gradually. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook on low speed. If by hand, use a wooden spoon until the dough comes together.
Step 4: Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes by machine or 10 minutes by hand on a floured surface until it is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticking to your fingers.
Step 5: Lightly oil a bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Gently punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Cover the balls and let them rest for another 15-20 minutes.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a baking stone or heavy baking sheet inside. Alternatively, preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat on the stove.
Step 8: On a floured surface, roll each dough ball into a circle about 6 inches wide and 1/4 inch thick. Bake for 2-3 minutes per side until puffed and slightly browned. Wrap in a towel immediately to keep soft.
Notes
Ensure your oven and baking surface are fully preheated for the best puff. If using a skillet, a lid can help trap steam for a softer finish.
- Prep Time: PT1H30M
- Cook Time: PT15M
- Category: Baked Goods
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pita
- Calories: 165 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: pita bread recipe, homemade pita, mediterranean bread, easy baking, fluffy pita pockets

