Homemade Pita Bread

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (around 110°F/43°C), yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.

2. 2

   Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

3. 3

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. Add small amounts of flour if needed.

4. 4

   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.

5. 5

   Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and cover with a towel. Let rest for 15 minutes.

6. 6

   Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a baking sheet or pizza stone on the middle rack to heat up.

7. 7

   On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a 6-7 inch circle, about 1/4 inch thick. Try to maintain even thickness throughout.

8. 8

   Carefully place 2-3 pitas on the preheated baking sheet. Bake for 4-6 minutes until they puff up like balloons and develop light golden spots on the bottom.

9. 9

   Remove from oven and immediately wrap the hot pitas in a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft and pliable. Repeat with remaining dough.

10. 10

    Let the pitas cool slightly in the towel before serving. They can be eaten warm or stored for later use.