This whole wheat pita bread recipe is a healthy and nutritious alternative to traditional pita. Made with 100% whole wheat flour, it provides a hearty flavor and is perfect for sandwiches, dips, or as a side with your favorite dishes.
The process is simple and requires basic ingredients. You can easily make these pitas at home with minimal effort.
Homemade Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Creating your own whole wheat pita bread at home is a rewarding experience that brings a sense of accomplishment. The process is straightforward and requires only a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
Whole wheat flour serves as the foundation for this recipe, providing a hearty flavor and a nutritious alternative to traditional white pita. The addition of olive oil and a touch of sugar enhances the taste, making these pitas perfect for pairing with dips or stuffing with your favorite fillings.
Preparation and Cooking Time
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of around 20 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those looking to whip up something fresh without spending hours in the kitchen. The total time, including the rising period, is about 1 hour and 35 minutes, allowing you to enjoy warm, fluffy pitas in no time.
Once you’ve mixed the ingredients and allowed the dough to rise, the real fun begins as you shape the pitas and watch them puff up beautifully in the oven.
Ingredients for Success
The simplicity of the ingredients is one of the many appealing aspects of this recipe. You will need 100% whole wheat flour, salt, sugar, olive oil, instant yeast, and warm water. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
Using high-quality whole wheat flour is key, as it contributes to the nutritional value and the overall taste of the pitas. The instant yeast ensures a quick rise, resulting in soft and fluffy bread that is sure to impress.
The Baking Process
Once your dough has risen, it’s time to shape the pitas. After punching down the dough, divide it into equal pieces and roll them into discs. This step is crucial, as the thickness of each disc will determine how well they puff up in the oven.
Preheating the oven to a high temperature is essential for achieving that signature puff. When placed on a hot baking stone or sheet, the pitas will expand rapidly, creating a pocket perfect for stuffing or dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Freshly baked whole wheat pitas are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm with a bowl of hummus for a healthy snack or use them as a wrap for grilled vegetables and lean proteins. They also pair wonderfully with fresh salads or as a side to your favorite Middle Eastern dishes.
The inviting aroma of warm bread, combined with the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables, makes for an appealing presentation that is sure to delight family and friends.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Each pita contains approximately 120 calories, making them a light yet satisfying option for any meal. With 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of fat, they provide a balanced addition to your diet.
Whole wheat flour is rich in fiber and essential nutrients, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer. Incorporating these pitas into your meals not only enhances flavor but also contributes to a healthier lifestyle.
Homemade Whole Wheat Pita Bread
This recipe yields soft and fluffy whole wheat pitas that puff up beautifully when baked. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the total cooking time is around 20 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying baking project.
Ingredients
- 2 cups 100% whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet inside to heat.
- Shape the Pitas: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a disc about 1/4 inch thick.
- Bake: Carefully place the discs on the hot baking stone or sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they puff up and are lightly browned.
- Cool: Remove the pitas from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Servings: 8 pitas
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g