This recipe for Joseph’s Pita Bread is a simple and healthy way to enjoy homemade pita. Made with whole wheat flour and a few basic ingredients, these pitas are perfect for stuffing with your favorite fillings or serving alongside dips.
The preparation is straightforward, and the pitas can be cooked on a stovetop or in the oven. Enjoy them fresh or store them for later use.
Homemade Whole Wheat Pita Bread
Creating pita bread at home is a rewarding experience that brings warmth and flavor to your meals. This whole wheat version is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare. The process involves simple ingredients, making it accessible for any home cook.
These pitas are soft and fluffy, perfect for stuffing with your favorite fillings or serving alongside dips like hummus. The recipe yields about eight pitas, taking approximately one hour from start to finish, allowing you to enjoy fresh bread without a long wait.
Ingredients for Pita Perfection
To achieve the ideal texture and flavor, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
These components work together to create a dough that rises beautifully, resulting in pitas with perfect pockets. The combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour strikes a balance between health and texture.
The Dough-Making Process
The journey begins with activating the yeast. Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl, allowing it to sit until frothy. This step is crucial for ensuring your pitas rise properly.
Next, whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Once combined, add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Rising and Shaping the Pitas
After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in size. This first rise is essential for developing flavor and texture.
Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into eight equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. Allow the flattened circles to rest for another 10-15 minutes, covered with a cloth, which helps them puff up during cooking.
Cooking Your Pita Bread
Preheat a skillet or oven to 475°F. Cook each pita for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they puff up and turn lightly browned. This quick cooking time ensures that the pitas remain soft and chewy.
Once cooked, transfer the pitas to a wire rack to cool. This step prevents them from becoming soggy and keeps them fluffy. Enjoy them fresh or store them for later use, making them a versatile addition to your meals.
Serving Suggestions
Freshly baked pita bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dips and fillings. Serve them alongside a bowl of hummus and a colorful plate of vegetables for a healthy and inviting meal. The pockets in the pitas are perfect for stuffing with grilled meats, salads, or roasted vegetables.
Whether you’re preparing a casual lunch or an impressive dinner spread, these pitas will elevate your dining experience. Their warm, fluffy texture and delightful flavor will surely impress your guests and family alike.
Homemade Whole Wheat Pita Bread
These pitas are soft and fluffy, with a pocket that makes them ideal for sandwiches or wraps. The recipe yields about 8 pitas and takes approximately 1 hour from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt.
- Combine: Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Shape Pitas: Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Second Rise: Cover the flattened circles with a cloth and let them rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Cook: Preheat a skillet or oven to 475°F. Cook each pita for about 2-3 minutes on each side until puffed and lightly browned.
- Cool: Remove the pitas from the skillet and let them cool on a wire rack.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8 pitas
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g