This recipe combines soft, warm pita bread with creamy hummus for a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer. Pita bread is easy to make at home and pairs perfectly with various dips, especially hummus.
The process involves simple ingredients and techniques, making it accessible for anyone looking to enjoy fresh pita and hummus.
Creating the Perfect Pita Bread
Making pita bread at home is a rewarding experience that yields delicious results. The key to achieving that soft and fluffy texture lies in the dough preparation.
Start by combining warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Allow it to froth for about five minutes. This step activates the yeast, which is essential for the pita to rise properly.
In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, combine it with the flour mixture and add olive oil. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, then let it rise for approximately 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial for developing flavor and texture.
Baking the Pita to Perfection
Preheat your oven to a high temperature of 475°F (245°C). If you have a baking stone, place it in the oven to heat up; otherwise, a baking sheet will work just fine.
Once the dough has risen, divide it into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about a quarter-inch thick. The thickness is important; too thick, and the pita won’t puff up properly.
Carefully place the rolled dough onto the hot baking stone or sheet. Bake for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the pitas are puffed and lightly golden. Remove them from the oven and cover with a towel to keep them warm and soft.
Whipping Up Creamy Hummus
While the pita bread is baking, you can prepare a smooth and creamy hummus that pairs perfectly with your freshly baked pitas. Start by gathering your ingredients: chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Blend until the mixture is smooth, adjusting the consistency with water as needed. The goal is to achieve a creamy texture that is easy to scoop with the pita.
Serving Suggestions for a Delightful Snack
Once your pita bread and hummus are ready, it’s time to serve. Cut the warm pita into wedges for easy dipping. Arrange them on a rustic wooden table for an inviting presentation.
Drizzle the hummus with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle some paprika on top for added flavor and visual appeal. You can also include fresh vegetables and herbs as accompaniments, enhancing the overall experience.
Enjoying a Healthy Snack
This combination of warm pita and creamy hummus makes for a delightful snack or appetizer. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that are both comforting and nutritious.
With a total preparation time of about 40 minutes, this dish is not only quick to make but also a healthy option that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether for a casual gathering or a quiet evening at home, this pairing is sure to please.
Nutrition and Benefits
Each serving of this pita and hummus combo provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. With around 300 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free snack that can fit into various dietary plans.
Homemade pita bread is free from preservatives and additives, making it a wholesome choice. Coupled with the nutrient-rich chickpeas in hummus, this dish offers a satisfying way to enjoy healthy eating.
Simple Pita Bread and Hummus Recipe
The pita bread is soft and fluffy, perfect for scooping up the smooth and flavorful hummus. This recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- For Pita Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- For Hummus:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed for consistency
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead until smooth. Let it rise for 30 minutes.
- Shape the Pitas: Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) with a baking stone or baking sheet inside. Divide the dough into 6 pieces and roll each into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Bake the Pitas: Place the rolled dough on the hot baking stone or sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until puffed and lightly golden. Remove and cover with a towel to keep warm.
- Prepare the Hummus: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Serve: Cut the pita bread into wedges and serve warm with hummus for dipping.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g