Homemade Pita Bread

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Homemade Pita Bread.

1. Step 1

   Begin by assembling all your ingredients in one place for easy access.

2. Step 2

   In the bowl of a stand mixer, blend the yeast with 1 cup of warm water and 1 cup of flour, whisking until the mixture is smooth.

3. Step 3

   Allow it to rest for about 15 minutes, during which time it will bubble and foam, signaling that the yeast is active.

4. Step 4

   Next, incorporate 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 3/4 teaspoons of salt into the yeast mixture.

5. Step 5

   Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of flour at a low speed using a dough hook, mixing until the dough becomes soft, supple, and slightly sticky.

6. Step 6

   Knead the dough on low speed for 5 to 6 minutes until it feels springy.

7. Step 7

   If the dough clings to the bowl, sprinkle in flour a little at a time, up to an additional 1/4 cup, until it releases easily.

8. Step 8

   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape it into a ball.

9. Step 9

   Lightly coat the inside of the mixing bowl with 1/4 teaspoon of olive oil, place the dough back inside, and turn it to ensure it’s coated.

10. Step 10

    Cover the bowl with foil and let it rise until it doubles in size, which should take about 2 hours.

11. Step 11

    Once risen, gently remove the dough from the bowl and place it on a lightly floured surface.

12. Step 12

    Flatten it to about 1-inch thick and cut it into 8 equal pieces.

13. Step 13

    Shape each piece into a small ball by pulling the edges toward the center and tucking them underneath to create a smooth top.

14. Step 14

    Cover the dough balls with lightly oiled plastic wrap and let them rest for 30 minutes.

15. Step 15

    After resting, transfer the dough balls to a floured surface and dust the tops with flour.

16. Step 16

    One by one, gently flatten each ball into a round disc about 1/4-inch thick, allowing the shaped dough to rest for 5 minutes.

17. Step 17

    Brush a cast iron skillet with the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat.

18. Step 18

    Place one round of dough in the skillet; cook for 30 seconds, then flip and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.

19. Step 19

    Flip again and cook the first side for another 1 to 2 minutes until both sides are golden brown.

20. Step 20

    Stack the cooked pita breads on a plate, and once they are cool enough to handle, slice them in half to reveal the delightful pocket inside, perfect for stuffing with your favorite fillings.

21. Step 21

    Enjoy the warm, homemade pita bread that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.