Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1.5 cups warm water (approximately 110°F/43°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture.
- Knead the Dough:
- Gradually incorporate the flour into the liquid, mixing to form a dough. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can reach (usually around 500°F/260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
- Divide and Shape:
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small balls, each about the size of a golf ball. On a floured surface, roll out each ball into a thin, round disc (approximately 6-8 inches in diameter).
- Second Rise:
- Place the rolled-out dough discs on a floured surface or parchment paper and let them rise for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will allow the dough to puff up slightly.
- Bake:
- If using a pizza stone, carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto the hot stone in the preheated oven. Alternatively, place the dough directly on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the pita bread puffs up and the edges turn golden brown.
- Brush with Olive Oil:
- Remove the pita bread from the oven and immediately brush the tops with olive oil. This helps keep them soft.
- Serve Warm:
- Serve the Palestinian pita bread warm, either as a side to dips, stuffed with your favorite fillings, or torn into pieces for scooping up delicious dishes.
Enjoy the authentic taste and soft texture of homemade Palestinian pita bread!
