Garlic Pita Bread Recipe

This Garlic Pita Bread is simple to make from scratch, using just a few ingredients, and delivers soft, puffy pita with a delicious garlic herb butter topping. The dough comes together in an hour, and when cooked, it puffs up beautifully. After baking, a rich, aromatic garlic butter with fresh parsley is generously spread on top, making each bite irresistible.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp active dry yeast
  • ⅓ cup milk (can substitute with water for dairy-free or vegan)
  • ⅓ cup warm water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
• For the Garlic Butter Topping:
  • ½ cup butter (can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter)
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tsp dried parsley)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
   • Gradually add the warm milk and water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.
   • Add the olive oil and knead the dough by hand until it comes together and is smooth.
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, then place a kitchen towel over it. Allow the dough to rest and rise for about 1 hour.
2. Shape the Pita:
   • Once the dough has risen, flour a clean work surface. Place the dough onto the surface and gently flatten it with your hands.
   • Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and cover with a towel to keep them warm while you work.
   • Using a floured rolling pin, roll each ball into a circle that is about ¼ inch thick. Repeat for all the dough balls.
3. Cook the Pita:
   • Stovetop Method: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place a pita dough circle into the pan. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 30 seconds. Flip the pita over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden-brown. Flip it again and cook for another 1-2 minutes to evenly toast both sides.
   • Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a large sheet pan on the center rack. Place the rolled-out pita directly onto the hot sheet pan and bake for 2 minutes. Flip the pita and bake for another 1-2 minutes until puffed and golden.
4. Prepare Garlic Butter:
   • While the pitas are cooking, melt the butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
   • Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Add them to the melted butter and stir well.
5. Finish the Pita:
   • As soon as the pita bread is cooked, spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the top of each piece.
   • Pile the pita bread on a plate and serve warm for a fragrant, irresistible treat!

What to Serve With:

• Pair this pita with chicken souvlaki, or make your own pita-gyro.
• Use it as a flatbread base for pizza or as a wrap for hummus or tzatziki.
• Slice into triangles and bake to make crispy pita chips, perfect for dipping.

Storing and Freezing:

• Store cooked pita in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, toaster, or stovetop.
• Freeze pita after cooling completely. Store in a ziplock bag with parchment paper between each pita, and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C). No need to thaw.

Enjoy your homemade, fresh Garlic Pita Bread as a tasty snack,