Greek Pita Bread

If you’ve ever tasted authentic, traditional Greek pita bread, you know why I’m so obsessed with this recipe! This pita is fluffy, soft as a cloud, and extremely easy to make. It’s super fresh and versatile – you can eat it next to salads or transform it into sandwiches, gyros, wraps, or even eat it as a dipper for your favorite spreads. In fact, I have an amazing Tzatziki sauce recipe that pairs up with this pita bread to perfection!

Contrary to popular belief, making this pita bread is an absolute breeze. With simple ingredients and only 5 minutes of dough kneading required, even kitchen novices can conquer this recipe like a Greek hero. And what if I told you that you don’t even have to turn on the oven for this recipe? Yep, that’s right! This pita bread is made on the stove, on an iron skillet, and only takes 2 minutes to cook on each side. 

But I have to tell you, this pita bread is meant to be shared. Not only because you will become the new Greek cuisine superstar, but also because it is genuinely so delicious, you’ll want everyone to experience ​​the joy and satisfaction that comes with tearing into a warm, freshly baked pita, savoring the aroma and spongy texture. Whether you’re hosting a Mediterranean feast or simply gathering loved ones around the table, this pita bread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. 

What does this Greek pita bread taste like?

When you bite into this homemade pita bread, you’ll experience a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The slightly crispy exterior gives way to a soft, pillowy interior, while a hint of olive oil adds richness to the taste. The bread is wonderfully balanced with a subtle sweetness and a hint of salt. Its light and airy texture is perfect for scooping up dips like tzatziki or hummus, or for creating delicious sandwiches. Homemade pita bread is a culinary delight that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece.

Why should you make this recipe?

• It’s ridiculously easy and even more ridiculously delicious! Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you’ve been able to survive so long without it.
• The satisfaction of sinking your teeth into soft, fluffy pita bread is unparalleled. It’s like biting into a culinary cloud!

Ingredients

Milk – Adds a touch of creamy and tender texture to your pita bread. Make sure your milk is brought to room temp beforehand.

Water – Provides hydration for the dough.

Sugar – Helps activate the yeast for a good rise.

Instant yeast – Enables the dough to rise.

Olive oil – Liquid gold from the Greek gods themselves. Olive oil adds a subtle richness and flavor to the pita bread. If you happen to have Greek olive oil on hand, this is the recipe to use it!

Flour – Give structure and texture to the dough. 

Salt – A pinch of salt will enhance the flavor of the pita bread, providing that savory touch.Fresh thyme – The fresh thyme will take your pita bread from bland to grand, so make sure not to skip it! If you don’t like thyme, you can use fresh rosemary or dill instead.

Tips for recipe success

• Make sure your yeast is fresh and activate it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before incorporating it into the dough. This step ensures a perfect rise.
• Don’t skip on the kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This will develop gluten, resulting in a light and airy texture.
• Don’t skip the fresh herbs! They will add plenty of flavors and infuse your pita bread with wonderful aromas that elevate its taste. 
• Use an iron cast pan to cook the pita.

Greek Pita Bread

Course: Breakfast, Brunch, LunchCuisine: GreekDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

174

kcal

I love all pitas, no matter the shape, origin, or color, but this Greek one has a special place in my heart. Serve this pita bread in combination with a nice Tzatziki sauce and I guarantee you, this won’t be the last time you’ll make it!

Ingredients

• 160ml milk (room temp)

• 80ml water (room temp)

• 1 tsp sugar

• 7g instant yeast

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 320g flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp thyme or dill (optional)

Directions

• In a bowl add the water, milk, sugar, and yeast; mix until combined then set aside for 5 minutes.
• In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and thyme or dill (if using).
• Add the olive oil to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
• Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and mix with a spoon or with your hand until a dough is formed.
• Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 min.
• Brush a bowl with olive oil and leave the dough to rise for 1h, covered with a towel.
• On a lightly oiled surface, cut the dough into 6 equal pieces and use a rolling pin to roll out the dough in approximately 20 cm circles.
• Cook the dough on a pan over medium heat for 1-2 min on each side until they puff up.