Homemade Pita Bread (Khubz Arabi)

Ingredients

• 4 cups (480 g) all-purpose flour, plus more if needed
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for oiling dough
• ½ oz/14 g (2 envelopes) active dry yeast dissolved in ½ cup (125 ml) warm water and 2 teaspoons sugar and allowed to stand for 10 minutes
• 1¼ cups (300 ml) lukewarm water

Instructions

1. 1Combine the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large mixing bowl. Create a well in the middle of the dry ingredients, then pour in the prepared yeast mixture and lukewarm water.
2. 2Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, adding a splash of water or a dusting of flour if needed. Form the dough into a round ball, brush the entire surface with a little olive oil, and return it to the bowl.
3. 3Drape a clean tea towel over the bowl and set it in a warm area. Let the dough rise for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. 4Divide the risen dough and roll it gently between your hands to form balls roughly the size of small oranges. Arrange the dough balls on a dry cloth in a warm spot, cover them with a tea towel, and let them rest for 30 minutes.
5. 5Transfer the rested dough balls to a lightly floured work surface and roll each one into a circle about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. Cover the rolled circles with a tea towel and let them rest for another 30 minutes.
6. 6Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and position the rack in the center. Carefully place the dough circles directly onto the hot oven rack and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until they puff up.
7. 7Move the baked loaves under the broiler for a few minutes if you prefer a darker, more toasted crust.

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