Ingredients
Method
- Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Stir until dissolved. Add ½ cup of flour and mix with a wooden spoon until just combined. Let sit uncovered in a warm spot for 5 minutes until small bubbles appear.
- Mix in salt, garlic powder (if using), olive oil, and 2 cups of the remaining flour. Attach the dough hook and knead on low until a shaggy dough forms. Add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time if sticky. Knead for about 2 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Knead the dough again for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough on a clean surface. Coat the inside of the mixing bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Form the dough into a smooth ball and place it in the oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and a towel. Let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 475ºF and place a cast iron skillet on the middle rack to heat. Lay a kitchen towel on the counter with a piece of foil for holding baked pita.
- After rising, remove plastic wrap and punch down the dough. Place on a clean surface and divide into 10 equal portions. Shape each into a smooth ball and cover with a towel. Rest for 10 minutes.
- Place two sheets of parchment paper on the counter. Lightly oil one side of each sheet. Place one dough ball between the sheets, oiled side down. Roll into an 8-inch circle, about ¼-inch thick. Do not flip.
- Carefully transfer the rolled dough to the preheated skillet. Cook for 2 minutes, then flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove with tongs and place on the foil, covering with the towel.
- Repeat rolling and cooking with remaining dough balls, reheating skillet as needed.
- To make garlic butter, melt butter in a small saucepan. Stir in garlic powder and salt. Brush generously over warm pita and sprinkle with parsley and parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
These homemade garlic pita breads bring comfort to every meal, warming hearts and kitchens alike. Perfect for dipping, stuffing, or enjoying right from the pan.