Sourdough Pita Bread
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sourdough starter
active and bubbly
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
plus more for oiling bowl
- 1 teaspoon salt
Directions
- 1
Combine everything in the bowl of a stand mixer with the dough hook.
- 2
Knead on medium/low speed for 10 minutes or until dough is stretchy and smooth.
- 3
Oil a large bowl. Place the dough in the bowl and add a lid or plastic wrap. and allow to rise until doubled.
- 4
Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size. About 4-6 hours at room temperature or up to 12 in the refrigerator.
- 5
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape into small balls on a lightly floured surface
- 6
Let the dough rest for 15 minutes to relax gluten.
- 7
Roll each ball of dough into a 6” thin circle with a rolling pin, no more than 1/4” thick.
- 8
Allow them to rise a little until puffy (about 30 min- 1 hr). Cover with a damp tea towel during this final rise to avoid the dough drying out.
- 9
While the pitas are doing their last rise, get a large pizza stone or cast iron skillet preheating in the oven at 500 degrees. You want to use a heavy vessel so that it can retain the heat. When the pitas hit the hot surface they release steam in the oven, and cook rapidly, creating the pocket that is so great for sandwiches or pita pockets!
- 10
Place the pita bread dough onto the hot baking surface and place into a hot oven. Bake for 5 minutes or so. They should puff up really nicely.
Sourdough Pita Bread
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About this Recipe
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, pillowy pita, fresh from your kitchen, imbued with that characteristic tang of sourdough. This Sourdough Pita Bread recipe brings the magic of wild yeast to your table, offering soft, fluffy pitas with the perfect pocket every time.
What truly sets this pita apart is the use of an active and bubbly sourdough starter. This not only contributes a unique depth of flavor but also works to create that desirable light and airy texture and the iconic internal pocket that makes pita so versatile for stuffing and dipping.
You can anticipate a delightful pita experience: a beautifully soft and fluffy bread that's a joy to tear or fill. Each pita boasts that signature airy pocket, perfect for stuffing with your favorite fillings, scooping up hummus, or simply enjoying plain. The sourdough lends a subtle, appealing tang that elevates it beyond typical flatbreads, making it a truly rewarding bake for any occasion.
While the recipe calls for a specific blend, you have options. Feel free to experiment with the balance of flours, perhaps increasing the whole wheat flour for a heartier pita, or using only all-purpose for an even lighter texture. If you're out of olive oil, another mild vegetable oil can work in a pinch, though olive oil contributes a lovely flavor.
These homemade sourdough pitas are ideal for any meal, from a casual weeknight dinner to a vibrant weekend spread. Serve them warm alongside grilled meats, falafel, or a fresh Mediterranean salad, or simply with your favorite dips like hummus or baba ghanoush.