Homemade Whole Grain Pita Bread

Try this Homemade Whole Grain Pita Bread recipe, or contribute your own.

Homemade Whole Grain Pita Bread
Homemade Whole Grain Pita Bread

Try this Homemade Whole Grain Pita Bread recipe, or contribute your own.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 0
  • Carbohydrate 17.4585000074869 g
  • Cholesterol 0 mg
  • Fat 0 g
  • Fiber 0.0423750006496089 g
  • Protein 0.0635625000272582 g
  • Saturated Fat 0 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 recipe (21g)
  • Sodium 0.847500000363443 mg
  • Sugar 17.4161250068373 g
  • Trans Fat 0 g
  • Calories 64 calories

Step-by-step

  • Add water, olive oil, honey, and salt to the bottom of a mixing bowl. Stir together.
  • Add flour and yeast. Stir to combine ingredients.
  • Kneading by hand: Knead the dough on a well floured surface for 4-5 minutes OR Kneading in a KitchenAid stand mixer: Using dough hook, knead on speed "2" for 4 minutes (5 minutes if making a double batch).
  • The dough should feel soft and a little "tacky", becoming less sticky as it sits and absorbs some moisture (as is the case when you use whole wheat flour). If the dough seems too dry (especially if you are not using freshly milled flour) you can add a little more water, 1 tablespoon at a time until dough is a little more sticky.
  • Cover bowl with a towel and allow to rise until double in size, about 30-60 minutes (if it doesn't double, it will be fine to proceed to the next step).
  • After dough has risen, punch down dough and remove dough from bowl.
  • Divide dough into 8-12 equal parts (depending upon the size pita you would like). I use my trusty scoops to make it easy and just scoop it straight from the bowl. (For a 4" diameter pita use a #20 scoop, for a 6" diameter pita use a #12 scoop).
  • Place dough parts onto a baking sheet that has been lightly greased with coconut oil or palm shortening. (You can usually fit 4 of the 6" pitas or 6 of the 4" pitas onto a baking pan).
  • Roll each part into a circle directly on the pan to about a ⅛" thickness (you don't have to be precise about the shape).
  • Allow the dough circles to rest/rise on the baking sheet while the oven preheats to 500°.
  • Place baking sheet into hot oven. Bake for 5-8 minutes (depending upon the size), watching closely, until pitas are slightly browned and puffy.
  • Allow pitas to cool slightly on cooling rack.
  • Slice into halves if desired.

My Baking Adventures: Homemade Whole Grain Pita Bread

As a busy working mom, finding time to bake is a luxury, but when I do, it's incredibly rewarding. There's something so satisfying about creating something delicious from scratch, especially when it's as versatile as pita bread. This whole grain pita bread recipe isn't just another recipe; it's a testament to making healthy choices without sacrificing taste. I've always been a proponent of incorporating whole grains into our diet, and this recipe perfectly embodies that. The slight nuttiness of the spelt and kamut flour gives these pitas a depth of flavour that you just can't find in regular white flour versions. Plus, using freshly milled flour, if you have access to it, takes the flavor to a whole other level!

The process itself is quite therapeutic. The kneading is a great stress reliever, and watching the dough rise is strangely satisfying. It's a small act of creation in my otherwise hectic day. The best part? The aroma that fills my kitchen while they bake is absolutely heavenly. This recipe isn't just about making pita bread; it's about slowing down, connecting with the process, and enjoying the fruits of my labor. The end result is soft, fluffy pita bread, perfect for scooping up hummus, falafel, or even just a simple smear of butter.

Beyond the Recipe: Whole Grain Goodness

Choosing whole grains like spelt and kamut isn't just a trendy health choice; it's a commitment to nourishment. These grains are packed with fiber, which is crucial for digestive health. Fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels, keeps you feeling full longer, and contributes to overall gut well-being. The added nutrients in whole grains also provide essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to our overall health. Using freshly milled flour, when possible, intensifies these benefits, retaining the nutrients that can often be lost during commercial processing.

Adapting the Recipe to Your Needs

This recipe is remarkably adaptable. Don't have spelt or kamut flour? No problem! Freshly ground whole wheat flour works perfectly well as a substitute. I've experimented with different flour blends, and the results have always been delicious. Feel free to adjust the hydration slightly depending on your flour and the humidity of your environment. If you’re baking with a different kind of flour, you may need to add a little more water to achieve the perfect dough consistency. It's all about achieving that soft, slightly tacky texture.

Serving Suggestions and Beyond

Once baked, these pitas are incredibly versatile. They are perfect for making homemade sandwiches, pizzas, or even as a base for delicious appetizers. I love filling them with grilled vegetables, hummus, and feta cheese for a quick and satisfying vegetarian lunch. For a heartier meal, you can use them to wrap falafel or shawarma. The possibilities are endless!

More Than Just Bread: A Connection to Tradition

Baking pita bread has become more than just a recipe for me; it’s a connection to tradition and a mindful way to nourish my family. It's a reminder to slow down, appreciate the simple things, and savor the process. It's a culinary journey, and each batch is a testament to the power of homemade goodness. This isn't just about the delicious taste; it's about the experience, the process, and the lasting satisfaction of creating something beautiful from simple ingredients.

So, I encourage you to try this recipe. It's a wonderful way to introduce more whole grains into your diet, connect with the art of baking, and enjoy the delicious rewards of homemade pita bread. It’s a small act of self-care, a culinary adventure, and a taste of homemade happiness.