Pita breads

Types of pita breads

• Standard Pita:

  A smooth, oval bread that puffs up when baked, making a pocket for stuffing.

• Whole Wheat Pita:

  Similar to standard pita but made with whole wheat flour, giving it a nuttier flavor.

• Thin Crust Pita:

  Thinner than regular pita bread and crunchier, ideal for dipping sauces.

• Thick Crust Pita:

  A thicker version that is chewier and offers more bread with each bite.

• Multi-Grain Pita:

  Pita made with a combination of grains for a unique texture and taste.

• Greek Pita:

  A more substantial and softer bread compared to regular pita, often used for wraps.

• Diagonal Pita:

  A modern twist where the pita is cut diagonally, making it easier to fill and used in various dishes.

• Luxury Pita:

  An enhanced version that's softer and fluffier than traditional pita bread.

Specifications and maintenance of pita bread

Specifications

The specifications of pita bread vary based on country and region. The diameter of pita bread is different from that of regular bread. Generally, pita bread is larger and puffy. Most will have a diameter of 6 to 15 inches. One typical characteristic of pita bread is the roundness and flatness of the bread. The thickness of pita bread is about 1/8 to 1/4 inches. Standard pita bread is thinner than regular bread. The weight also differs from item to item. Pita bread weighs 2 to 3 oz on average. Smaller portions are called pita chips. Approximately, pita chips will have a weight of 0.5 to 1 oz.

Maintenance

Indoor storage at room temperature is acceptable, provided pita bread is kept in a sealed bag or container. Average room temperatures of 20 to 25 degrees Celsius are bearable for pita bread. Nevertheless, it is still advisable to consume the bread as soon as possible. For long-term storage, freezing pita bread is the safest choice, but the pita bread must be airtight. Up to three months is the healthiest period for storage because just about any food can go bad in time. When ready to eat, thaw the bread in any way. It can be cooked directly from frozen in a hot skillet. It will be back to fresh in a matter of seconds. Another option is to let it sit at room temperature for an hour or two to thaw.

Unstack flatbreads and place them separately on the grill or griddle. Heat the griddle over medium-high heat until hot. Heat the flatbreads one at a time for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and have grill marks on one side. Moreover, pita bread can be reheated in the oven. Wrap pita in aluminum foil and place it on the oven rack. Heat for 3 to 5 minutes at 350°F. Microwave on a paper towel or microwavable plate. Pita can dry out easily, so be careful not to overheat it. Use a damp paper towel to cover the plate and microwave for about 30 seconds.

Scenarios of using pita breads

Pita bread is very popular in some cultures, so there are many uses for it. Many restaurants are using pita breads in various ways.

• Sandwiches: People can cut pitas in half and fill the pockets with toppings. The pita pocket provides a unique and playful way to assemble sandwiches. A whole pita can also be used as a wrap. Larger pitas can wrap grilled meat, fried food, or vegetables, similar to tortillas or other flatbreads. This sandwich scenario is popular among food outlets.
• Dipping: Pita chips are a popular snack. They are made from pita bread by cutting them into smaller wedges and toasting or baking until crispy. The chips are often enjoyed with various dips, such as hummus, tzatziki, guacamole, salsa, or baba ghanoush. Pita bread is also used to scoop or dip into dishes, similar to how one would use a bread roll or slice of bread. This is common in Middle Eastern cuisine, where pita is used to scoop up stews, salads, and other dishes.
• Pizza: Pita bread can be used as a quick and easy pizza base, especially for mini pizzas or individual portions. The pocket of the pita can be filled with pizza toppings, or the whole bread can be topped and toasted. Some innovative restaurants use pita as a pizza base.
• Entree accompaniment: Restaurants usually serve pita bread with grilled meat or chicken. This is a common scenario in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants. Menus display grilled chicken or beef served alongside pita bread and salads.

Buyers looking for business ideas can consider these scenarios.

How to Choose Pita Breads

• Product Origin:

  Knowing where the pita bread is produced can impact taste, quality, and authenticity. Many consumers appreciate locally-made products, thinking it supports the community and reduces carbon footprints. However, imported pita bread can still be of high quality, and unique flavors and varieties may be worth considering.

• Packaging:

  Packaging is important as it affects the bread's freshness and shelf life. Look for pita bread that is vacuum-sealed or wrapped tightly to maintain its softness and prevent it from drying out. Pay attention to the packaging integrity to ensure the product is not tampered with or contaminated.

• Expiry Date:

  The expiry date on the pita bread packaging is a crucial factor. Always choose pita bread that has a longer shelf life to ensure customers can sell it before it expires. Check the expiry date to avoid potential losses due to expired products. It's also important to note that some frozen pita bread has a longer shelf life than refrigerated or fresh ones.

• Price:

  The price of pita bread can vary based on factors like production location, packaging, and quality. Consider pricing when ordering pita bread for resale. Compare prices from different suppliers and brands to ensure competitive pricing for customers. It's also important to consider the profit margins and customer demand when determining the appropriate price point.

• Allergens:

  Pita bread allergens can pose a risk to individuals with specific dietary restrictions. Pay attention to the allergen information on the packaging, such as the presence of wheat, gluten, or any cross-contamination with other allergens. Choosing pita bread with clear allergen labeling can help mitigate the risk of allergic reactions.

• Sizes:

  Pita bread is available in various sizes, ranging from small to large. Consider the size of the pita bread that aligns with the intended use. Smaller pita bread is suitable for making sandwiches or snacks, while larger ones are ideal for serving with meals or gatherings.

• Quantity:

  Whether purchasing pita bread for personal use or resale, the quantity specified in the order is crucial. Consider the demand and storage capacity when ordering to ensure the right amount is purchased. Larger quantities may be more cost-effective for resale, while smaller quantities may suffice for personal use.

Pita breads Q&A

Q: What are the latest trends in the pita bread market?

A: The global demand for pita bread is expected to continue growing in the coming years. The growth of the food service industry, coupled with the increasing consumption of Middle Eastern cuisine worldwide, is expected to drive the demand for pita bread. In addition, the rising popularity of healthy and low-calorie food options is expected to boost the demand for whole wheat pita bread and gluten-free pita bread.

Q: Is pita bread vegan?

A: Yes, regular pita bread is vegan, but always check the ingredients and ask about how the bread was made because some recipes use lard.

Q: What is the pocket pita bread made of?

A: Ingredients for pocket pita bread include flour, water, salt, yeast, and sugar or olive oil. Whole wheat pocket pita bread also contains whole wheat flour. Gluten-free pita bread substitutes fine rice flour and tapioca starch for regular wheat flour.

Q: Is pocket pita bread healthy?

A: Pocket pita bread is a healthy option because it contains less gluten than regular bread. When made with whole wheat flour, it offers more fiber than white tortillas and can assist in digestion and weight loss.