This recipe guides you to make soft and fluffy pita bread at home, perfect for wraps or dipping.
In a large bowl, combine the bread flour and salt.
Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of the salt.
In a small bowl, mix the yeast, sugar, and 1/4 cup of warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
Using warm water activates the yeast effectively.
Make a well in the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture, olive oil, and the remaining warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients to avoid lumps.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Kneading develops the gluten, which is essential for the bread's texture.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours.
A warm environment helps the dough rise properly.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and roll out into a 1/4-inch thick circle.
Rolling evenly ensures uniform cooking.
Preheat a cast iron skillet in the oven at 500°F. Place the dough circles onto the skillet and bake for 3 minutes. Optionally, broil for 1 minute for a golden top.
Preheating the skillet ensures the bread puffs up nicely.
Wrap the baked pitas in a damp tea towel for a few minutes to keep them soft.
This step prevents the bread from drying out.
Serve the pita bread warm or store for later use.
Enjoy your pita bread with your favorite dips or fillings.