Za’atar Pitas Recipe

Introduction

Za’atar pitas are warm, fluffy flatbreads infused with the aromatic Middle Eastern spice blend, perfect for dipping or stuffing. This simple recipe brings authentic flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 380 g plain flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp caster sugar
• 7 g instant yeast
• 280 ml lukewarm water
• 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp za’atar seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, mix the plain flour, salt, caster sugar, and instant yeast together. Pour in the lukewarm water and 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, then combine to form a loose dough.
2. Step 2: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Step 3: Place the dough into a clean bowl lightly coated with olive oil to prevent sticking. Cover with a tea towel and allow to proof for approximately 1 hour, or up to 1.5–2 hours in a cooler room, until doubled in size.
4. Step 4: Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan).
5. Step 5: Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it then divide into 4 equal portions (or more if preferred). Using your fingers, press each ball of dough into a flat, round pita shape about 1–2cm thick.
6. Step 6: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the za’atar seasoning. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of each pita and sprinkle with sea salt.
7. Step 7: Place the pitas on a baking tray and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
8. Step 8: Allow the pitas to cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect for dipping into hummus or drizzling with extra virgin olive oil.

Tips & Variations

• Use warm water (not hot) to activate the yeast effectively without killing it.
• Try adding a bit of garlic powder or sumac to the za’atar mixture for extra flavor depth.
• If you want thinner pitas, roll them out a bit more before baking but keep an eye to avoid tearing.
• For crunchier pitas, bake a few extra minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.

Storage

Store leftover pitas in an airtight container or zip-lock bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked pitas separated by parchment paper for up to 1 month. Reheat in a warm oven or toaster oven until soft and heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but you’ll need to activate active dry yeast by dissolving it in warm water for 5–10 minutes before mixing with the flour and other ingredients.

What is za’atar seasoning?

Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made from dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. It adds a tangy, earthy flavor to breads and dishes.

Za’atar Pitas Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 114 reviews

This Za’atar Pitas recipe offers a delightful way to make homemade Middle Eastern flatbreads infused with the earthy, aromatic flavors of za’atar seasoning. Soft, fluffy, and flavored with olive oil and za’atar, these pitas are perfect for dipping into hummus or drizzling with extra virgin olive oil, making them a savory and fragrant addition to any meal or snack.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 medium-sized pitas 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients

• 380 g plain flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp caster sugar
• 7 g instant yeast
• 280 ml lukewarm water
• 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil

Topping Ingredients

• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp za’atar seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine the plain flour, salt, caster sugar, and instant yeast in a large mixing bowl. Stir well to evenly distribute all dry components.
2. Add Wet Ingredients and Form Dough: Pour the lukewarm water and 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil into the dry ingredients. Mix together until a loose dough forms, ensuring all flour is incorporated.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for around 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten for the perfect pita texture.
4. First Proof: Place the kneaded dough into a clean bowl with a small drizzle of olive oil at the bottom to prevent sticking. Cover with a tea towel and leave it to proof in a warm place for about 1 hour, or 1.5 to 2 hours if the environment is cooler, until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan-assisted) to get it ready for baking the pitas.
6. Shape the Pitas: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions (or more if preferred). Gently prod each ball with your fingers to shape them into flat rounds about 1-2 cm thick, creating the classic pita shape.
7. Prepare Za’atar Topping: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of za’atar seasoning. Brush this mixture generously over the top of each pita. Sprinkle a good pinch of sea salt over each one for added flavor.
8. Bake the Pitas: Place the prepared pita rounds onto a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden on top and cooked through.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the pitas to cool slightly before serving. They are delicious when dipped into hummus or drizzled with extra virgin olive oil for an authentic Middle Eastern treat.

Notes

• Ensure the water is lukewarm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
• The proofing time may vary based on room temperature; warmer environments speed up the rise.
• You can adjust the number and size of pitas by dividing the dough into smaller portions if desired.
• Za’atar seasoning can be purchased pre-made or homemade for extra freshness.
• For softer pitas, cover baked pitas with a clean cloth to retain moisture after baking.

Keywords: Za’atar, pita bread, Middle Eastern bread, homemade pita, easy bread recipe, za’atar seasoning, flatbread