Bread | Vegetarian Vegan

Pita Bread

Triticum aestivum (for wheat) Allergens: Wheat, Gluten
pita bread

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Middle Eastern, Mediterranean
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Wheat flour, Water, Yeast

The Forktionary Angle

"Unfolding the ancient history and modern versatility of the pocketed bread marvel."

Definition

A leavened flatbread, traditionally made from wheat flour, characterized by its distinctive pocket formed during baking, originating from the Middle East.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Yeasty, Slightly Sweet
TextureSoft, Chewy, Pliable, Forms a pocket
AromaBready, Yeasty, Slightly Toasty
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Historical Origin

Ancient Middle East (over 4,000 years old)

Main Ingredients

Flour, water, yeast, salt

Optimal Toasting Temp

180°C (350°F) for 2-3 mins (for pocket opening)

Nutrition Facts

Per 60g (1 large pita)
Calories265 kcal
Total Fat1.0 g
Saturated Fat0.2 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein9.0 g
Total Carbohydrate56 g
Dietary Fiber2.0 g
Total Sugars3.0 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron2.0 mg
Potassium100 mg

Chef’s Secret

Reheat pita bread quickly in a hot skillet, oven, or microwave for a few seconds to soften and easily open its pocket without tearing.

Substitutions

Best Match

Tortilla (flour)

1:1

Similar pliability for wraps, but lacks the pocket and distinct pita flavor.

Naan Bread

1:1

Soft, chewy, good for dipping, but generally thicker and doesn't form a pocket.

Flatbread (store-bought)

1:1

General term, offers similar bready base, but texture and thickness vary greatly.

Lettuce Wraps

N/A

Gluten-free, low-carb alternative for fillings, but completely different texture.

Buying Guide

Look for fresh, soft pita bread without cracks. Can be frozen for longer storage.

Flavor Pairings

Hummus falafel gyros kebabs dips salads grilled meats.

Recipes Using Pita Bread

3 Steps Or Less Greek Main Ingredient Dips

7 Layer Mediterranean Dip With Hummus

Wow your guests with this vibrant 7-Layer Mediterranean Dip! A stunning and delicious appetizer, this Greek-inspired recipe starts with creamy hummus and builds to a colorful masterpiece. Each layer bursts with fresh flavors, making it perfect for parties, game day, or a casual weeknight snack. Get ready for compliments galore! Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or oregano for extra color and zing.

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Time To Make Course Cuisine Lamb Sheep

Adana Kebab

Experience the fiery flavors of Turkey with this authentic Adana Kebab recipe! Named after Turkey's fourth-largest city, this kebab boasts a succulent blend of lamb and veal, marinated overnight for maximum tenderness. The secret ingredient? Zesty sumac, easily found in Middle Eastern markets or online – trust us, it makes all the difference! Prepare for a culinary journey as you grill these flavorful skewers to perfection, then tuck them into warm pita bread with creamy yogurt sauce and a vibrant red onion relish. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Vegan Saudi Arabian Course Dietary

Adas Bil Hamod Lentils With Lemon Juice

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this delicious Adas Bil Hamod recipe, inspired by Nahda Salah's "One Thousand and One Delights." This hearty lentil dish, perfect for Zaar World Tour II, is bursting with fresh lemon juice and fragrant herbs. A simple yet satisfying recipe, ready in under an hour!

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Occasion Lunch Occasion Lamb Sheep

Alton Brown's Gyro Meat Recipe

Experience the ultimate gyro meat recipe, perfected by Alton Brown! This mouthwatering blend of succulent lamb and savory ground beef is incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you prefer the oven-baked meatloaf method or the impressive rotisserie approach, the result is a juicy, tender gyro that's guaranteed to impress. Detailed instructions guide you through each step, ensuring a perfect gyro every time. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

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Time To Make Weeknight Main Ingredient Main Dish

Amazing Beef

Transform tough, inexpensive beef cuts into incredibly tender and flavorful stew with this slow cooker recipe from Natalie Haughton's best-selling cookbook! Vinegar-packed peppers magically break down the meat fibers, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, or easily served in pita bread with fresh tomatoes for a delicious handheld meal. #slowcookerrecipes #beefstew #easyrecipe #budgetfriendly #comfortfood

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Course Seafood Course No Cook

Apple And Cheddar Tuna Salad

Light, refreshing, and surprisingly delicious! This Apple & Cheddar Tuna Salad recipe (inspired by a Hellmann's mayo coupon!) is a quick and easy lunch or light dinner. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet apple, sharp cheddar, and succulent tuna in warm pita bread. This recipe is easily adaptable – try it with chicken or serve it over a bed of crisp lettuce for a refreshing salad. No draining required if using tuna pouches!

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Dietary Middle Eastern Grilling Finger Food

Armenian Shish Kebab

Savor the succulent flavors of Armenia with this irresistible Shish Kebab recipe! Tender lamb marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection alongside juicy onions, peppers, and mushrooms. This BBQ feast is perfect for a summer cookout or a special weeknight dinner. Impress your family and friends with this authentic Armenian culinary delight!

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Low Saturated Fat Low Saturated Fat 30 Minutes Or Less Low Fat

Asian Tofu Pitas

Quick & easy Asian Tofu Pitas recipe! This vegetarian lunch is bursting with flavor – savory tofu, crisp veggies, and a tangy sauce all nestled in warm pita bread. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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Meat Main Ingredient Meat Low In Something

Authentic Pork Souvlaki

Unlock the secrets to authentic Greek pork souvlaki! This recipe delivers the closest you'll get to a taste of Greece, using a marinade that will have your family begging for more. Tender, juicy pork skewers grilled to perfection – it's unbelievably delicious. Even better? This recipe also works beautifully with chicken, and you can enjoy it in under 3 hours if you're short on time! Get ready for a flavor explosion.

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Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Preparation

Avocado Chicken Pita

Crispy pita bread pockets filled with creamy avocado, juicy chicken, and melted cheese! This quick and easy recipe, inspired by Simple & Delicious magazine (March/April 2008), is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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Course Time To Make Appetizers Number Of Servings

B Nutty Dip Aka Lucky 13 Hummus

This lucky #13 hummus recipe is a protein-packed, lemony, garlicky, and nutty twist on a classic! Made with 13 ingredients (each using amounts of 1 or 3), this dip is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a spread on sandwiches, with pita chips, or as a healthy snack with veggies. Prepare for a flavor explosion!

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Dietary Preparation To Go Holiday Event

Balsamic Bean Dip With Fresh Veggies

This vibrant and flavorful Balsamic Bean Dip, inspired by Bon Appétit's February 2008 issue, is ready in just 5 minutes! Creamy cannellini beans are blended with zesty balsamic vinegar, fragrant olive oil, and a touch of fresh herbs for a dip that's perfect for parties or a quick weeknight snack. Serve with an array of colorful crudités and warm pita wedges for a truly unforgettable experience.

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Occasion Spicy Occasion Time To Make

Barley Morocco

This vibrant and flavorful Barley Morocco recipe is a feast for the senses! Tender barley is perfectly complemented by a medley of colorful vegetables and hearty garbanzo beans. Served with warm pita bread and refreshing melon wedges sprinkled with mint, this dish is a healthy and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Main Dish Weeknight

Bbq Veggie Joes

A hearty and flavorful meatless twist on a classic! These BBQ Veggie Joes are packed with tender lentils, sweet veggies, and a tangy BBQ sauce, all nestled in a warm pita pocket. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian lunch or dinner.

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Healthy Low Calorie Vegetarian Pasta Rice And Grains

Bean And Rice Patties In Pita With Yogurt Tahini Dressing

Craving a healthier, flavorful twist on falafel? These hearty bean and rice patties, inspired by Moosewood's low-fat favorites, are packed with spices and nestled in warm pita bread with a creamy yogurt-tahini dressing. A fantastic vegetarian meal that's quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! Customize the spice level to your liking – more cumin and cayenne are always welcome! Prep time excludes brown rice cooking.

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Middle Eastern Spreads Dietary Jewish Sephardi

Best Israeli Hummus

Craving authentic Israeli hummus? This recipe comes incredibly close to the creamy, dreamy hummus you'll find throughout Israel! We've streamlined the process with canned chickpeas for ultimate convenience, but feel free to use dried for a deeper flavor (instructions may vary slightly). Get ready to experience the taste of Israel in your own kitchen – perfect with warm pita and your favorite toppings!

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South West Pacific South West Pacific Cuisine Micro Melanesia

Chicken Kelaguen In Depth

Unleash the fiery flavors of Guam with this in-depth recipe for Chicken Kelaguen! More involved than our quick version, this recipe delivers an explosion of rich, spicy taste. A true culinary adventure, but handle the chilies with care – gloves recommended! This authentic Guamanian dish features perfectly marinated and grilled chicken, tossed with freshly grated coconut, vibrant green onions, and a zesty citrus dressing. Prepare for a flavor journey!

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Oven High Protein Broil Preparation

Gyro Meat

Experience the taste of Greece with this authentic Gyro Meat recipe! A family favorite passed down through generations, this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful gyro meat perfect for pita pockets. The secret? A generous blend of aromatic spices and a touch of garlic (use less if you prefer). Serve with our complementary Cucumber Yogurt Sauce (recipe included) for an unforgettable culinary journey. Get ready for a delicious adventure!

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