How to bake authentic Arabian pita bread
Arabian pita bread is a type of bread that is common in middle Eastern cuisines and that is basically an integral part of any meal in this region. It is a leavened bread that is basically made using yeast, water and wheat flour. The high temperature used in making the bread turns the water into steam which makes the bread to puff up forming a pocket.
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Servings: 4 people
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Ingredients
- 3 cups Whole wheat flour
- 1¼ cups all purpose flour
- 2 tsp Instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1½ cups warm water
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Step 2: Prepare the dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix the ingredients using a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the dough
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Add a little flour if the dough is too sticky or a few drops of water if it is too dry.
- Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread its characteristic texture.
Step 4: Proof the dough
- Place the dough in a clean bowl lightly greased with olive oil, turning it to coat all sides.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: pre-heat the oven
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a baking stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
Step 6:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles.
- Transfer it to a floured surface and divide it into 10 equal-sized pieces.
- Shape each piece into a ball and let them rest, covered with a cloth, for about 15 - 20 minutes.
Step 7: Roll out the dough rounds
- Take one ball of dough and flatten it with your hands into a disk shape.
- Using a rolling pin, roll it out into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls.
Step 8: Bake the pita bread
- Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough rounds onto the preheated baking sheet
- Bake for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread puffs up and forms a pocket, and the edges turn lightly golden brown
Step 9: Keep the pita warm
- As each pita bread comes out of the oven, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel to keep it warm and prevent it from drying out. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Arabian pita bread is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve it with your favorite dips, fill it with grilled meat, falafel, or fresh vegetables to create delicious sandwiches, or simply savor its wonderful flavor on its own.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft texture.
- Remember to wrap the bread in a clean kitchen towel to keep it warm and prevent it from drying out. The trapped steam will help keep them soft and warm.
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