A whole grain pita is a special type of bread made with whole grain flour rather than white flour. Pitas have a round, flat shape with a pocket in the middle for holding meat, cheese, or vegetables. While whole grain pitas are available in many grocery stores and bakeries, some people prefer to make their own at home for a more fresh, homemade taste. These breads can be eaten on their own or substituted for regular sliced bread in sandwiches and other dishes.
Water, yeast, oil, flour, and salt are the only ingredients needed for a typical whole grain pita recipe. Whole wheat flour is the most commonly used whole grain flour because it is readily available and relatively inexpensive when compared to other whole grain flours. Although almost any type of whole grain flour can be used, some cooks prefer oatmeal or wheat germ.
After the ingredients are combined, they are kneaded by hand or in a bread setting machine until they are ready to bake. In the eastern countries where they originated, whole grain pitas are traditionally baked in a brick bread oven. If you don’t have access to a bread oven, you can bake the pita at a high temperature in a regular oven or heat it on a pizza stone to get the same effect.
Whole grain pita manufacturers make this flat bread in a variety of sizes, ranging from small snack pitas to pitas large enough for sandwiches and pizza. Some people use honey to add sweetness, which complements the wheat’s natural flavor. For added crunch and texture, some people use flax or sunflower seeds.
Hummus or other types of dips can be dipped into a whole grain pita. It can also be used to make a pizza or a sandwich by stuffing it with meat and vegetables. Pita chips are made from whole grain pitas that have been sliced and baked into crunchy wedges that can be served with dip or eaten plain.
Whole grain pita breads have numerous health benefits when compared to pitas and breads made with white flour. They’re high in fiber, which aids digestion and blood sugar regulation. Whole grains have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease and diabetes. Finally, many people prefer whole grain products to standard white pitas because of their texture and nutty flavor.