Homemade Pita Bread

Homemade Pita Bread

**Ingredients:**

– 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

**Instructions:**

1. **Activate the Yeast:**
– In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.

2. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
– Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
– Mix until the dough starts to come together.

3. **Knead the Dough:**
– Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
– If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it is too dry, add a bit more water.

4. **First Rise:**
– Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

5. **Shape the Pitas:**
– Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
– Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
– Roll each ball into a disc about 1/4 inch thick. Cover the discs with a damp cloth and let them rest for about 30 minutes.

6. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a baking stone, place it in the oven to preheat. If not, use a baking sheet.

7. **Bake the Pitas:**
– Place the rolled-out dough discs onto the hot baking stone or baking sheet.
– Bake for about 3-5 minutes, or until the pitas puff up and are lightly golden.

8. **Cool and Serve:**
– Remove the pitas from the oven and cover them with a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft.
– Serve warm or at room temperature.