Pita Bread

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method

1. 1

   In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, stir together the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes.

   5:00 · Proof yeast
2. 2

   Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix and knead (by hand or with a dough hook) until a smooth, elastic dough forms, about 8 minutes.

   8:00 · Knead dough
3. 3

   Shape the dough into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size.

4. 4

   Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, cover with a towel, and let rest 15 minutes.

   15:00 · Rest dough balls
5. 5

   Place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven and preheat to 500°F for at least 20 minutes before baking.

   20:00 · Preheat oven
6. 6

   On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a round about 1/4 inch thick and 6 to 7 inches across.

7. 7

   Carefully transfer 2 to 3 rounds at a time onto the hot baking sheet and bake until puffed and lightly browned in spots, 2 to 3 minutes.

   2:00 · Bake pita
8. 8

   Remove pitas and wrap in a clean kitchen towel to keep soft while baking the remaining rounds.