Fluffy Pittas
Treat yourself to the delicious experience of making your own homemade fluffy pittas with an authentic Greek twist. These delicious pittas surpass store-bought ones with their irresistibly soft and fluffy texture. Fill them with juicy grilled chicken or pork, crisp lettuce and a touch of refreshing tzatziki sauce for a delicious fake kebab that will transport your taste buds straight to Greece. Improve your cooking skills and enjoy a delicious meal with these heavenly pittas in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients
- 500g strong white bread flour, plus some flour for dusting
- 7 g bag of fast-acting dry yeast
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 200 ml milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus a little oil to let rise and brush
Preparation steps
- Make the dough a few hours before eating
- Mix flour, yeast, sugar, thyme (if using) and 2 teaspoons salt in a bowl with your fingertips
- Pour milk, olive oil and 100 ml lukewarm water over it
- Still using your fingers, mix the ingredients together to form a dough
- Transfer the dough to a work surface and knead for 8-10 minutes (or beat in a food processor for 5 minutes).
- Clean a bowl and lightly oil it
- Place the dough in the bowl and cover with a tea towel
- Let the dough rise for 1 hour or until it has almost doubled in size
- If you want more time, place the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours
- Divide the dough into eight equal pieces
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece of dough into circles about 8 inches wide
- Brush each circle with a little more olive oil
- Cook the flatbread on the hot side of the grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until puffed and bubbling
- Alternatively, heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat
- Cook each flatbread individually in the pan until bubbles appear on the surface, 1-2 minutes
- Turn the flatbread over and bake for another 2-3 minutes
- Continue cooking the pittas until they are all cooked through, wrapping them in foil to keep warm
Nutritional Information
Equipment and tools
- mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- tablespoons and teaspoons
- baking tray or stone
- parchment paper
- rolling pin
- Spatula or dough scraper
Allergen information
Please note that this recipe contains the following allergens:
- Wheat
- milk
Storage and leftovers
Once cooked, these fluffy pittas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for later use. To freeze, allow the pittas to cool completely and then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you need them to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature or heat them in a toaster or oven until warmed through.
Health Benefits of Fluffy Pittas
Not only are fluffy pittas delicious and versatile, but they also offer several health benefits. These fluffy bread pockets are made from healthy ingredients and are a healthier alternative to regular bread. Let’s explore some of the health benefits of including fluffy pittas in your diet:
1. Nutrient rich
Fluffy pittas are usually made from strong white bread flour, which is a good source of essential nutrients. It provides your body with important vitamins and minerals such as iron, B vitamins and selenium. These nutrients are critical for various body functions, including energy production, brain health, and immune system support.
2. Rich in fiber
Thanks to the use of whole wheat flour, fluffy pittas contain more fiber than regular white bread. Fiber is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system and promoting satiety. Eating enough fiber can help manage weight, reduce the risk of heart disease and prevent constipation.
3. Low fat and cholesterol free
Unlike many store-bought breads, homemade fluffy pittas are usually low in fat. By eliminating fatty ingredients, you can enjoy a lighter bread that doesn’t compromise your diet. Additionally, fluffy pittas do not contain cholesterol, making them heart-healthy and suitable for people who want to lower their cholesterol levels.
4. Versatile vehicle for healthy fillings
Fluffy pittas provide an excellent base for a variety of healthy fillings. Instead of high-calorie spreads or processed meats, you can opt for nutrient-dense options like grilled vegetables, lean proteins, and fresh herbs. This way, you can prepare filling, tasty meals without compromising on your health goals.
5. Control over the ingredients
When you make your own fluffy pittas, you have full control over the ingredients used, meaning you can avoid unnecessary additives or preservatives. This is particularly beneficial for those with dietary restrictions or those who prefer a more natural approach to their food choices.
6. Increased portion control
Thanks to their pocket-like structure, fluffy pittas naturally portion your meals. They encourage you to load them up with a balanced combination of ingredients so you can maintain portion control and avoid overeating. This can be particularly beneficial for those who want to control their weight.
In summary, fluffy pittas offer several health benefits due to their nutrient-dense ingredients, high fiber content, and versatility as a vehicle for healthy fillings. By making your own fluffy pittas, you can tailor them to your dietary needs and enjoy a delicious and filling bread option that supports your overall well-being.