Pitta Snacks

Pitta Snacks Recipe from Tanzania - Simple Olive Oil and Basil Dish

Region / culture: Tanzania | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10-15 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Pitta snacks are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. These crispy and flavorful snacks are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a tasty treat to enjoy at home.

History

Pitta snacks have their origins in Middle Eastern cuisine, where pita bread is a staple food. Pita bread has been enjoyed for centuries in countries like Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey. The idea of turning pita bread into a crispy and seasoned snack likely came about as a way to use up leftover bread and add some extra flavor to a simple staple.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Split the pita bread into two halves.
Score the bread with a knife, making sure not to cut all the way through.
Lightly brush the bread with olive oil and sprinkle with basil, garlic powder, and ground Cayenne pepper.
Place the bread on a cookie sheet and bake at 350°F (177°C) until it turns golden or lightly browned.
Allow the bread to cool, then break it into pieces.

Variations

Add different seasonings like paprika, cumin, or onion powder for a unique flavor profile.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
Top with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to score the pita bread before baking to create a crispy texture.

- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences - add more or less garlic salt, cayenne pepper, or parmesan cheese.

- Keep an eye on the pita snacks while baking to prevent them from burning.

- Allow the pita snacks to cool completely before breaking them into pieces for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve pitta snacks with hummus, tzatziki, or your favorite dip for a delicious appetizer or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole wheat pita bread for a healthier option.

- Substitute grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese for the parmesan cheese.

- Use melted butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Pitta snacks can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve pitta snacks on a platter with fresh vegetables, olives, and cheese for a colorful and appetizing display.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair pitta snacks with a glass of chilled white wine, a cold beer, or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect snack combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover pitta snacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes to crisp them up before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of pitta snacks contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of pitta snacks contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of pitta snacks contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of pitta snacks contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Pitta snacks are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Pitta snacks contain wheat and dairy (parmesan cheese), so they are not suitable for those with gluten or dairy allergies.

Summary

Pitta snacks are a moderate source of carbohydrates and fats, with a relatively low protein content. They are a tasty and satisfying snack option for those looking for a crunchy and flavorful treat.

Summary

Pitta snacks are a simple and delicious treat that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dips and drinks. With a crispy texture and flavorful seasonings, these snacks are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a tasty snack at home.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for Pitta Snacks. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village nestled in the mountains. My family was known for our love of cooking, and I had always been fascinated by the art of creating delicious dishes from scratch.

One day, a traveling merchant passing through our village shared with me a recipe he had learned from a wise old woman in a distant land. He called it Pitta Snacks, a simple yet flavorful dish that had become a favorite among his customers. Intrigued by the sound of it, I asked him to teach me how to make it.

The merchant agreed and invited me to watch as he prepared the dish. I eagerly followed along, taking in every detail of the process. He began by slicing open a pitta bread and filling it with a mixture of roasted vegetables, herbs, and spices. He then placed the filled pitta on a hot griddle and cooked it until it was crispy and golden brown.

As the aroma of the cooking Pitta Snacks filled the air, I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special. The merchant generously shared the recipe with me, and I promised to honor his gift by mastering the art of making Pitta Snacks.

Over the years, I have refined and perfected the recipe, adding my own twists and tweaks to make it uniquely my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who always ask for seconds and thirds whenever I make it. The secret, I have found, lies in the quality of the ingredients and the care and attention put into each step of the cooking process.

One of my favorite memories of making Pitta Snacks is when my grandchildren come to visit. They always eagerly ask to help me in the kitchen, and I love passing down the tradition of cooking to the next generation. Together, we slice, fill, and cook the pitta bread, laughing and chatting as we work.

As we sit down to enjoy the Pitta Snacks together, I am filled with a sense of pride and fulfillment. This recipe, handed down to me by a kind stranger, has become a cherished part of my family's culinary heritage. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to nourish both body and soul.

I am grateful for the day I stumbled upon the recipe for Pitta Snacks, and for all the experiences and memories it has brought into my life. It is a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart, a symbol of the joy and connection that cooking can bring. And for that, I am truly thankful.