If you’re looking for a delicious bread with a unique texture try making Round, Flat, Arabic Bread (Pita). This type of bread is light and fluffy, yet it has a crispy exterior. Its simple ingredients make it a great option for anyone looking to make a homemade bread. This recipe is easy to follow and takes about three hours from start to finish. The results are a delicious, homemade bread that can be served at any meal.
Ingredients used:
- 1 Tablespoon of Dry Yeast (1 pkg)
- 1 Teaspoon of Sugar
- 1 Cup of Warm Water
- 15 Cups of Unbleached White Flour
- 4 1/2 Tablespoons of Salt
- 5 Cups of Warm Water (add 1 1/2 cups nonfat dry milk -- optional to water and beat well)
- 3 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
Recipe steps:
- In a medium bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in 1 cup of lukewarm water. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes so the yeast can activate.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the warm water, olive oil, and the yeast mixture. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix it together with a wooden spoon or with your hands until the dough sticks together.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured board or cloth and knead it for 10-15 minutes. Gradually add the reserved flour to keep the dough from sticking. Knead the dough until it is elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a dry cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for 2 hours until it doubles in size.
- Punch the dough down, oil your hands and divide the dough into 25-30 balls the size of small oranges. Cover them with a dry cloth and let them rise for 30 minutes.
- Roll each ball into a 7-8 inch circle that is ¼ inch thick. Place them on flat boards or a table and cover them with a dry cloth. Let them rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Place the breads on baking sheets, 2 per sheet. Bake in the middle of the oven for 4-6 minutes. The breads should puff up and balloon during baking.
- Slide the breads onto a board to cool and spray them with water. Cover the stack with a damp tea towel for 2-3 hours.
You’ve just made Round, Flat, Arabic Bread (Pita). This delicious and unique bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve it warm with a spread of butter or jam. Enjoy your homemade bread! You can also store it in the freezer for up to two months.