19 Israeli Pita Recipe Ottolenghi Experience Flavor Like Never Before!
Published on: Apr 2, 2024
The Israeli pita is a staple food in Middle Eastern cuisine, often served alongside a variety of dips, salads, and grilled meats. While it may seem like a simple bread, there is actually a lot of technique and tradition that goes into making the perfect pita. In this article, we will explore the traditional Israeli pita recipe from renowned chef Yotam Ottolenghi and learn how to make this iconic bread from scratch.
Main Ingredients: Garbanzo Beans, Yellow Onion, Garlic Cloves, Cilantro
Falafel pita sandwiches are a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day. The crispy and flavorful falafel balls are stuffed into a soft pita bread along with fresh vegetables and drizzled with a creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s the perfect combination of crunchy, creamy, and savory flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more. This easy and quick recipe is a great way to enjoy the traditional flavors of the Middle East in the comfort of your own home.
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Cinnamon and Sugar Toasted Mini Pita Fruit Nachos
Main Ingredients: Pitas, Melted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Ground Pecans
Who says nachos can only be made with chips? These cinnamon and sugar toasted mini pita fruit nachos are a fun and healthier twist on the classic snack. The mini pita breads are baked with a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar until crispy and then topped with your favorite fruits. They are great as a light and refreshing dessert or as a snack for kids. Plus, they are easy to make and customizable with your favorite fruits.
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Shrimp and Israeli Pepper Salad with Pita Bread
Main Ingredients: Sweet Onion, Cucumbers, Green Peppers, Red Peppers
This shrimp and Israeli pepper salad with pita bread is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer day. The juicy and succulent shrimp is marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic dressing and paired with crunchy Israeli peppers for a burst of freshness. Served with warm and toasty pita bread, this dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
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Chicken Shawarma with Hummus & Pita
Main Ingredients: Lemon, Olive Oil, Garlic, Coarse Salt, Ground Black
Chicken shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is loved all around the world. This recipe takes the classic chicken shawarma and turns it into a delicious pita sandwich. The tender and juicy chicken is marinated in a blend of flavorful spices and then grilled to perfection. Served with creamy hummus and wrapped in warm pita bread, this dish is a must-try for any shawarma lover.
Israeli salad is a refreshing and healthy side dish that is packed with fresh vegetables and herbs. This simple and colorful salad is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and is often served as a side dish or as a topping for falafel or shawarma. Made with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, and dressed with lemon juice and olive oil, this salad is a great addition to any meal.
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Baked Rosemary Pita Chips
Main Ingredients: Pitas, Olive Oil, Dried Rosemary, Kosher Salt
These baked rosemary pita chips are a healthier alternative to store-bought chips and are perfect for snacking on or dipping into your favorite dips. The pita bread is cut into triangles, seasoned with rosemary and salt, and then baked until crispy. They are perfect for entertaining guests or for a movie night at home.
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Homemade Italian Pita Pockets
Main Ingredients: Pitas, Meatballs, Prosciutto, Onion, Green Pepper, Red
These homemade Italian pita pockets are a great way to enjoy the flavors of Italy in a convenient and portable sandwich. The pita bread is filled with a variety of Italian meats, cheeses, and vegetables, and then toasted until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. It’s a great option for a quick lunch or for a picnic in the park.
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Easy Pita Lunch Ideas
Main Ingredients: Pitas, Whole Grain, Kale, Olive Oil, Dijon Mustard
Pita bread is a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be used to create a variety of delicious and easy lunch options. From pita sandwiches and wraps to pita pizzas and salads, the possibilities are endless. You can fill them with your favorite meats, cheeses, and vegetables to create a customized and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on-the-go or at home.
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Bacon Ranch Chicken Pita Pizza
Main Ingredients: Dips, Cooked Chicken, Pitas, Cooked Bacon, Cheddar
This bacon ranch chicken pita pizza is a delicious and creative twist on the classic pizza. The pita bread is topped with a creamy ranch sauce, crispy bacon, tender chicken, and melted cheese, making it a mouth-watering combination of flavors and textures. It’s a perfect option for a quick and easy dinner or as a party appetizer.
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Thick and Creamy Restaurant-Style Tzatziki Dip
Main Ingredients: Yogurt, English Cucumber, Garlic Powder, Salt, Garlic
This thick and creamy restaurant-style tzatziki dip is a must-have for any pita dish. Made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, this dip is bursting with fresh and tangy flavors that pair perfectly with pita bread. It’s great as a dip for pita chips or as a topping for sandwiches and wraps.
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Pita Chips (clean Eats/vegan)
Main Ingredients: Pitas, Coconut Oil, Garlic Powder, Dried Herbs
These pita chips are a healthier alternative to store-bought chips and are perfect for snacking on or dipping into your favorite dips. Made with whole wheat pita bread, they are baked until crispy and seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices for a flavorful and guilt-free snack. They are also vegan-friendly, making them a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.
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Vegan Pita Pizza
Main Ingredients: Chopped Tomatoes, White Onion, Garlic, Dairy Free
If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly option for pizza night, these vegan pita pizzas are a must-try. The pita bread is topped with a flavorful tomato sauce, your favorite vegetables, and vegan cheese, making it a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pizza. It’s a great way to enjoy your favorite comfort food while still sticking to your dietary preferences.
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Pita With Avocado And Fried Egg A’la Fast Breakfast...
Main Ingredients: Pita, Lemon, Avocado, Egg, Tomato, Chives, Pepper
This pita with avocado and fried egg is a quick and nutritious breakfast option that will keep you energized throughout the day. The creamy avocado and perfectly fried egg are placed on top of warm pita bread and drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It’s a great way to start your morning on a delicious and healthy note.
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Greek Pita Sandwiches
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Fresh Lemon Juice, Minced
These Greek pita sandwiches are a hearty and flavorful option for lunch or dinner. The pita bread is stuffed with juicy and tender Greek-style meatballs, fresh vegetables, and topped with a creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s a great way to enjoy the classic flavors of Greece in a convenient and portable sandwich.
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Pita Mozz, Feta Dressing and Pita Dinner
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, Crumbled Feta Cheese, Red Wine Vinegar
This pita mozz, feta dressing, and pita dinner is a simple and satisfying meal that can be put together in no time. The pita bread is filled with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, and then drizzled with a tangy feta dressing. It’s a great option for a light and refreshing dinner on a busy weeknight.
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Easy 15-Minute Cheese Pita Pizza
Main Ingredients: Pitas, Olive Oil, Italian Herb Seasoning, Tomato Sauce
This easy 15-minute cheese pita pizza is a perfect option for a quick and easy dinner or snack. The pita bread is topped with your favorite pizza toppings and then baked in the oven for just 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. It’s a great option for a lazy day or when you’re craving pizza but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
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Oven Baked Pita Chips
Main Ingredients: Pitas, Cooking Spray, Pepper, Garlic Salt, Dried Basil
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional chips, these oven-baked pita chips are a great option. Made with whole wheat pita bread and baked in the oven until crispy, they are a guilt-free and flavorful option for snacking on. They are also perfect for dipping into your favorite dips or as a topping for salads.
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Pita Pizza
Main Ingredients: Pita, Baby Spinach, Sliced Mushrooms, Shredded
This pita pizza is a simple and delicious meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day. The pita bread is topped with your favorite pizza toppings and then baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. It’s a great option for a quick lunch or dinner and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
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ISRAELI SALAD SALSA
Main Ingredients: Persian Cucumbers, Large Tomato, Red Onion, Parsley
This Israeli salad salsa is a fresh and flavorful side dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or as a topping for pita bread. Made with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, and dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, this salad has a unique and delicious twist on the traditional Israeli salad. It’s a great way to add a burst of flavor to any meal.
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Homemade Pita Chips
Main Ingredients: Pitas, Olive Oil, Paprika, Greek Seasoning, Salt
These homemade pita chips are a great way to use up any leftover pita bread and are perfect for snacking on or dipping into your favorite dips. They are easy to make and can be seasoned with your favorite herbs and spices for a flavorful and crunchy snack. They are also a great way to add a homemade touch to your next party or gathering.
The History of Israeli Pita
From Ancient Times to Modern Day
The origin of pita bread can be traced back to ancient civilizations in the Middle East, particularly in Greece, Turkey, and Israel. It was traditionally baked in outdoor ovens, and its round shape made it easy for nomadic cultures to transport and eat on the go. Over time, the pita evolved to become a staple in many Middle Eastern diets and is now enjoyed all over the world.
The Secret to a Perfect Israeli Pita
The Key Ingredients
The key to a delicious Israeli pita lies in the ingredients and the technique used to make it. The main ingredients for pita dough are flour, water, yeast, and salt. However, Ottolenghi's recipe also includes a small amount of olive oil and honey, which adds a subtle sweetness to the bread. The dough is then kneaded and allowed to rest, resulting in a soft and pliable texture.
The Importance of Technique
While the ingredients are important, the technique used to bake the pita is what really sets it apart. The dough is rolled out into thin rounds and then placed in a hot oven or on a hot grill. The high heat causes the dough to puff up and create a pocket, which is the signature characteristic of a pita. This pocket is perfect for filling with your favorite dips or using as a wrap for sandwiches.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pita
Practice Makes Perfect
Making pita may seem daunting at first, but with practice, you will be able to perfect the technique and create delicious pita every time. It's important to roll the dough thin enough and ensure that the oven or grill is hot enough for the pita to puff up properly.
Experiment with Flavors
While the traditional pita recipe calls for plain dough, feel free to experiment with different flavors. You can add herbs, spices, or even roasted vegetables to the dough to create a unique and flavorful pita.
In conclusion, the Israeli pita is a versatile and delicious bread that has been enjoyed for centuries. By following Ottolenghi's recipe and using the right technique, you can easily recreate this iconic bread at home. So next time you're craving some Middle Eastern cuisine, why not try making your own pita? Your taste buds will thank you.
