👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes. The mixture should become foamy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.

   💡 Tip: Ensure the water is warm to the touch but not hot, as excessively hot water can kill the yeast. If it doesn't foam, your yeast may be old and you should start again with fresh yeast.
2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.

   💡 Tip: Using a large bowl provides ample space for mixing and kneading the dough.
3. 3

   Pour the activated yeast mixture, tahini, and olive oil into the well in the flour. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry until a shaggy, cohesive dough begins to form.

   💡 Tip: Tahini adds a characteristic nutty depth and a slightly richer texture to the pita.
4. 4

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured clean surface. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes. The dough should transform from sticky and rough to smooth, soft, and elastic. It should spring back slowly when gently pressed with a finger.

   💡 Tip: To knead, push the dough away from you with the heel of your hand, fold it over, and give it a quarter turn. Repeat this motion consistently.
5. 5

   Lightly grease the large mixing bowl with a little olive oil. Place the kneaded dough into the bowl and turn it to coat lightly with oil. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has visibly doubled in size.

   💡 Tip: A slightly warm oven (turned off, with the light on) or near a sunny window can be ideal spots for dough to rise.
6. 6

   Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.

   💡 Tip: To keep the dough from drying out while you work, cover the remaining dough balls with a clean kitchen towel.
7. 7

   Working with one ball at a time, flatten it slightly and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a thin circle, approximately 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) in diameter and about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick. Aim for an even thickness for consistent cooking.

   💡 Tip: Avoid using too much flour while rolling, as it can make the pitas tough. Roll gently but firmly.
8. 8

   Heat a dry cast-iron skillet, griddle, or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. The pan is ready when a drop of water sizzles and evaporates quickly. Carefully place one rolled-out pita into the hot pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side. The pita should puff up significantly and develop golden-brown spots. If it doesn't puff, the heat might be too low, or the dough may not have enough gluten development.

   💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; cook pitas one or two at a time. You should see small bubbles forming on the surface as it cooks. If the pita starts to burn, reduce the heat slightly.
9. 9

   Remove the cooked pita from the pan and immediately wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or place it in a clean bowl covered with a towel. This helps keep the pitas soft and pliable.

   💡 Tip: Repeat the cooking process with the remaining dough circles.
10. 10

    Serve the Cypriot Tahini Pita Bread warm.

    💡 Tip: These pitas are best enjoyed fresh, but can be reheated briefly.