PITA BREAD

Pita bread is a flat, round bread also known as Middle Eastern flat bread.

Pita bread is yeast-leavened and baked in a very hot oven. Its two layers are almost separated during baking. A hollow centre forms, which can be split very easily to make a pocket. It can be opened at one end and filled for a sandwich or cut in half for two smaller sandwiches.

History

Pita bread originated in Egypt and the Middle East centuries ago. It was introduced to the rest of the world by immigrant communities in the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Storage

Generally, the many varieties of pita bread can be frozen for maximum freshness for up to six months.

Nutritional value

Pita bread is a low-fat and low-sugar bread. Like other grain-based foods, it is very nutritious and contains protein, iron, and the three main B-vitamins (thiamine, niacin, and riboflavin). The complex carbohydrates in wheat, and therefore pita bread, are a primary source of energy.