Whole Wheat Pita Bread

1. Combine Ingredients

Start by combining the water, olive oil, sugar, yeast, salt, and whole wheat flour in a medium mixing bowl. Stir the ingredients together using a wooden spoon until they are well mixed.

2. Add All-Purpose Flour

Once combined, add the all-purpose flour gradually, stirring until the mixture forms a shaggy mass.

3. Knead the Dough

Transfer this mixture onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough by hand for about 10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for approximately 8 minutes. The goal is to achieve a smooth and very elastic dough.

4. Form into Ball and Let Rise

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and form it into a smooth ball. Lightly oil a clean mixing bowl and place the dough inside, ensuring to oil the top of the dough as well. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise for about 1 hour in a warm area until it has doubled in size.

5. Preheat Oven

While the dough is rising, place a baking steel or a 12-inch cast iron skillet on the top rack of your oven and preheat it to 500°F (260°C).

6. Prepare Dough Balls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into 6 even pieces and form each piece into a ball. Cover the dough balls with a damp towel and let them rest for about 10 minutes.

7. Roll Out Dough Circles

After resting, roll each dough ball into a 7-inch circle, ensuring it is no more than 1/4 inch thick. Place the dough circles on a floured surface, cover them with a damp towel, and let them proof for 30 minutes.

8. Bake Pitas

Carefully place the dough circles onto the preheated baking steel or cast iron skillet, top side down, and close the oven door. Bake for about 3 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when they puff up and the edges turn slightly golden.

9. Keep Warm and Serve

Once baked, place the pitas on a towel-lined plate and wrap them with the towel to keep them warm. Repeat the baking process with the remaining dough circles. If you prefer extra-charred pitas, you can briefly heat each side in a hot cast iron skillet for about 30 seconds per side. Serve the pitas immediately while they are warm and soft.