This Homemade Basil-Infused Pita Bread is soft, flavorful, and easy to make! Infused with aromatic dried basil and cooked to golden perfection, these pitas are versatile and perfect for dipping, wrapping, or enjoying on their own. With a hint of Mediterranean flavor, they pair beautifully with dips, grilled meats, and fresh salads.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rising Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 10 pitas
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp dry basil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 8.5 fl oz (250 ml) hot water
- 12.7 oz (360g) flour
- 1 tsp salt
Directions
- Prepare Basil-Infused Oil:
- Combine dry basil with olive oil and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Activate the Yeast:
- Dissolve yeast and sugar in hot water (not boiling).
- Stir well and let sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift the flour and mix in salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the basil-infused olive oil and yeast mixture into the flour.
- Stir until all ingredients are well combined and form a sticky dough.
- Knead the Dough:
- Knead the dough by hand for 2-3 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- If too sticky, add a little flour while kneading.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and place it in a warm spot.
- Let it rise for 45 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
- Divide and Roll:
- After rising, divide the dough into 10 equal parts.
- Shape each part into a ball and roll out thinly with a rolling pin.
- Cook the Pitas:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook each rolled-out pita for 2-2.5 minutes per side, until golden brown spots appear.
- Steam the Pitas for Softness:
- Brush each cooked pita with hot water and immediately cover with a clean towel.
- This helps to keep them soft and pliable.
- Serve & Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush.
- Use as a base for gyros, shawarma, or falafel wraps.
- Pair with grilled meats, fresh salads, or Mediterranean spreads.
- Toast and serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
- Make a quick pita pizza with cheese and toppings!
Cooking Tips
- Use warm water (not boiling) to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic for the best texture.
- Keep the cooked pitas covered with a towel to retain moisture.
- If you prefer fluffy pitas, roll them slightly thicker.
- Add garlic powder, oregano, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Basil is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Olive oil provides healthy fats and adds depth of flavor.
- Yeast-fermented dough makes the bread light and airy.
- Homemade pitas are preservative-free and freshly made!
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly
- Dairy-free
- Can be made gluten-free (use gluten-free flour blend)
Nutritional Facts (Per Pita)
- Calories: 140-160 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month and reheat before serving.
- Reheat: Warm in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes or in the microwave for 10 seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and easy with minimal ingredients.
- Soft, flavorful, and perfect for wraps or dipping.
- No oven required, just a stovetop!
- Customizable with herbs and spices for different flavors.
Conclusion
This Homemade Basil-Infused Pita Bread is a quick, delicious, and versatile recipe that brings Mediterranean flavors to your table. Whether served with hummus, stuffed with grilled meats, or enjoyed as a snack, these soft and aromatic pitas are a must-try!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use fresh basil instead of dried basil?
Yes! Use chopped fresh basil (2 tbsp) instead of dried. - Can I bake these pitas instead of cooking in a skillet?
Yes! Bake at 450°F (230°C) for 5-7 minutes until puffed. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Store the dough in the fridge overnight and let it come to room temp before rolling. - Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust liquid as needed. - Why are my pitas not puffing up?
The pan might be too cold or the dough too thick. Roll them thin and use a hot skillet. - Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes! Use ¾ tsp instant yeast and skip the activation step. - How do I make the pitas crispier?
Cook longer on medium-high heat or toast in the oven. - Can I freeze the dough before cooking?
Yes! Freeze dough balls and thaw before rolling and cooking. - What can I substitute for olive oil?
You can use melted butter or avocado oil. - How do I reheat leftover pitas?
Warm them in a skillet or microwave for a few seconds.