Traditional Ramadan Pita Bread (Ramazan Pidesi)

Ingredients

• • For the Dough:
    • • 5 cups (600g) all-purpose flour
      • 1 teaspoon (8g) salt

     

    • • 1 packet (10g) dry yeast
      • 1 teaspoon (10g) granulated sugar
      • 2.5 cups (500ml) warm water

     

  • For the Topping:
    • • 1 egg yolk
      • 1 tablespoon (40g) yogurt

     

    • Sesame seeds (as needed)
    • Optional: Raisins for sprinkling

Directions

• • Prepare the Dough:
    • • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, dry yeast, and sugar. Mix well.
      • Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients while mixing.

     

    • Once the water is absorbed, knead the dough with your hands until soft and smooth. The dough will be sticky—use flour sparingly to make handling easier.
  • Rest the Dough:
    • • Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm environment for 30 minutes.

     

  • Shape the Dough:
    • • After 30 minutes, the dough should have doubled in size.
      • Sprinkle flour on a clean counter and divide the dough into 2 equal parts.

    Sprinkle breadcrumbs onto a baking tray to prevent sticking.

    • Place the dough pieces on the tray and gently press them into round shapes.

• Add the Topping:
  • • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and yogurt.
    • Generously brush this mixture over the surface of the dough.
    • Using your fingertips, lightly press the dough to create the classic pita pattern.

   

  • Sprinkle sesame seeds (and raisins, if desired) over the top.
• Bake the Pita:
  • • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

   

  • Bake the pita in the oven for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Serve:
  • • Allow the pita to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

   

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with soups, stews, or as a side to savory dips like hummus or baba ghanoush.

• Pair with olive oil and za’atar for a Mediterranean touch.

Cooking Tips

• • Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.

• Use a damp cloth to cover the dough during resting to prevent it from drying out.
• For a shinier crust, you can add a drizzle of olive oil before baking.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Flour: Provides carbohydrates for energy.
  • Eggs: Rich in protein and vitamins.
  • Sesame Seeds: Add healthy fats and a nutty flavor.

Dietary Information

• Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
• For a dairy-free version, replace yogurt with a plant-based alternative.