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Puffy Israeli Pita in 20 Minutes

Pillowy, golden pita that puffs in the pan — no oven required. This one-skillet recipe uses a high-heat sear to trap steam inside, creating that signature Israeli pita texture in under 20 minutes.

Total time
20 min
Servings
4
Calories
298
Protein
8g
Puffy Israeli Pita in 20 Minutes
simplefreshisraelivegetarianveganfluffycrispysoft

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Mix warm water, yeast, and 1 tbsp olive oil in a bowl. Let sit 2 minutes until foamy.

  2. Step 2

    Stir in flour and salt until a shaggy dough forms. Knead by hand 2 minutes until smooth.

  3. Step 3

    Divide dough into 4 equal balls. Roll each ball on an unfloured surface 30 seconds until taut.

  4. Step 4

    Let dough balls rest uncovered for 8 minutes while you heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high.

  5. Step 5

    Stretch one dough ball into a 5-inch round. Brush with remaining olive oil and sprinkle sesame if using.

  6. Step 6

    Place in hot skillet. Listen for sizzle; cook 90 seconds until bottom puffs and edges brown slightly.

  7. Step 7

    Flip gently. Cook 60 seconds on the second side until bottom is golden and pita holds its puff.

  8. Step 8

    Transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining 3 dough balls, keeping finished pitas warm under a towel.

Tools you’ll need

  • mixing bowl
  • wooden spoon or whisk
  • 12-inch cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
  • kitchen timer

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