Pita Pockets

Pita Pockets Recipe from Oman - Healthy and Flavorful Dish with Whole Wheat Flour, Fresh Yeast, Onions, Cumin, Tomatoes and Lettuce

Region / culture: Oman | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pita pockets are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a meal on the go. These pockets are typically filled with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meats, and sauces, making them a versatile and customizable option for any meal.

History

Pita bread has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. The pocket bread is believed to have originated in ancient Mesopotamia and has since spread to various parts of the world. Pita pockets, specifically, have become popular in recent years as a convenient and portable meal option.

Ingredients

For the pita bread
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp (5 g) fresh yeast, crumbled
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp oil
0.25 tsp salt

-- For the dressing

3 tbsp fresh curds
2 spring onions, chopped
1 garlic clove, chopped
0.25 tsp cumin seeds powder
0.5 green chilli, chopped
salt to taste

-- Other ingredients

2 tomatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup lettuce, shredded

How to prepare

For the pita bread: Combine all the ingredients except the oil in a bowl and knead into a soft dough using enough water until it is smooth and elastic. Add the oil and knead again. Cover the dough with a damp muslin cloth and allow it to double in volume (approximately 15 to 20 minutes). Press the dough lightly to remove the air. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll out each portion into a circle with a diameter of 5 inches and a thickness of 0.13 inches. Cook the pita breads on a griddle for about a minute on each side or until the bread puffs up. Remove and set aside. Cut each pita bread into 2 halves.
For the dressing: Blend all the ingredients in a food processor until a smooth sauce is obtained. Set aside. Warm the pita bread halves on a griddle. Fill each pita bread half with tomato, lettuce, and a tablespoon of the dressing on top. Repeat for the remaining pita bread halves and other ingredients to make 3 more Pita Pockets. Serve immediately.
Tips: 1. You can also serve the pita pockets with red garlic chutney. 2. Use any other patties or cutlets of your choice to fill the pita pocket. 3. You can use 0.5 tsp (2.5 g) of dry yeast instead of fresh yeast for the above recipe.

Variations

Try filling the pita pockets with grilled chicken, falafel, or roasted vegetables for a different flavor profile.
Add different herbs and spices to the dressing for a unique and flavorful twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to knead the dough for the pita bread until it is smooth and elastic to ensure a soft and fluffy texture.

- Cooking the pita bread on a griddle for about a minute on each side will help it puff up and create the perfect pocket for filling.

- Experiment with different fillings and sauces to create unique and flavorful pita pockets.

Serving Suggestions

Pita pockets can be served with a side of salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. They also pair well with hummus or tzatziki for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough for the pita bread until it is smooth and elastic.

- Cooking the pita bread on a griddle until it puffs up and creates a pocket for filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour for a lighter texture.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for the fresh curds in the dressing for a tangier flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pita bread dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. The dressing can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pita pockets on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pita pockets pair well with a variety of side dishes such as tabbouleh, couscous, or roasted vegetables. They also go well with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pita pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm the pita pockets in a toaster oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of pita pockets contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying and balanced meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of pita pockets contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a good source of energy for your body.

Fats

Pita pockets are relatively low in fat, with each serving containing around 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of pita pockets provides about 8 grams of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Pita pockets are a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the vegetables and calcium from the dairy in the dressing.

Alergens

Pita pockets may contain allergens such as wheat from the bread and dairy from the dressing. Be sure to check for any allergens before consuming.

Summary

Pita pockets are a nutritious and balanced meal option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Pita pockets are a delicious and versatile meal option that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether filled with vegetables, meats, or sauces, these pockets are sure to satisfy your hunger and cravings. Enjoy them for lunch, dinner, or a snack on the go!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Pita Pockets. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Sarah at her house. Sarah was known for her delicious homemade meals and she had just finished making these mouthwatering pita pockets for lunch. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make them myself.

Sarah graciously shared her recipe with me, explaining that she had learned it from her grandmother who had grown up in the Middle East. She showed me how to make the dough from scratch, how to shape it into perfect circles, and how to cook them on a hot griddle until they puffed up like little pillows. The smell of the fresh bread filling her kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to try making them on my own.

I went home that day with a newfound determination to master the art of making pita pockets. I spent hours in the kitchen, kneading the dough until it was smooth and elastic, letting it rest and rise, and then carefully shaping it into rounds. I watched as the pockets puffed up in the oven, creating the perfect little pocket for all sorts of delicious fillings.

Over the years, I have made these pita pockets countless times, each time experimenting with different fillings and variations. I have filled them with falafel and tahini sauce, roasted vegetables and hummus, grilled chicken and tzatziki, and so many other delicious combinations. Each time I make them, I am reminded of that summer day with Sarah and how she inspired me to learn this wonderful recipe.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of making pita pockets from scratch. I have taught my grandchildren how to knead the dough, shape the pockets, and cook them to perfection. They love helping me in the kitchen, getting their hands messy with flour and experiencing the joy of creating something delicious from scratch.

As I look back on all the recipes I have collected over the years, this one holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to pass on traditions from one generation to the next. I am grateful for the friends and family who have shared their recipes with me, and for the joy that cooking has brought into my life.

So the next time you are craving a delicious and satisfying meal, why not try making pita pockets from scratch? It may take a little time and effort, but the reward of biting into a warm, fluffy pocket filled with your favorite ingredients is well worth it. And who knows, maybe one day you will pass on this recipe to someone you love, creating new memories and traditions along the way.