Pita bread and pita pockets refer to two similar yet distinct types of flatbread. While they share some key characteristics, there are a few differences between traditional pita bread and pita pockets:
Origins
Pita bread has ancient origins, with evidence of flatbreads like pita dating back thousands of years to ancient civilizations in the Middle East, Greece, and Egypt. The word “pita” comes from the Greek word “pitta” meaning cake or pie. Traditional pita bread is a simple flatbread made from wheat flour, water, yeast, and salt.
Pita pockets, on the other hand, are a more modern invention. They were popularized starting in the 1960s and 70s as a versatile carrier for sandwich fillings. While based on traditional pita bread, pita pockets have a slightly different production method that creates a pocket or pouch inside the bread.
Ingredients
Both traditional pita and pita pockets are made from similar simple ingredients – flour, water, yeast, and salt. However, the quantity and proportions of ingredients can vary to produce the different end products.
Traditional pita dough contains:
- 2 1⁄2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
Pita pocket dough often contains:
- 3 cups flour
- 1 1⁄2 teaspoons yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 1⁄4 cups warm water
The pita pocket dough uses a bit more flour and water to create a softer, puffier dough for forming the pocket.
Production Method
While both types of flatbread are made using similar steps of mixing, kneading, and rolling out dough, the final cooking method differs:
Pita bread:
- Dough is rolled out thin and baked at a high temperature (over 500°F), causing the bread to puff up and create an air pocket.
- After baking, the bread deflates leaving just two smooth, flat surfaces.
Pita pockets:
- Dough is rolled thicker and baked at a slightly lower temperature (400-450°F).
- This allows the dough to puff up and the air pocket to be maintained, creating a pocket.
The different techniques produce either a flat pita bread or a pocketed pita.
Shape and Structure
Due to the different production methods, traditional pita bread and pita pockets have a distinct shape and structure:
Pita bread shape:
- Flat and smooth on both sides
- No pocket or indentation
- Round or oval shape, about 6-8 inches across
Pita pocket shape:
- One smooth side, one side with a pocket or pouch
- Indentation and air pocket inside
- Round, 4-6 inches across
Uses
The different shapes lend themselves to different culinary uses:
Pita bread is well suited for:
- Dipping in hummus, babaganoush, and other dips
- Making pita sandwiches or wraps
- Salads like fattoush
- Pizzas
Pita pockets work well for:
- Stuffing with sandwich fillings
- Pitas, gyros, or falafel sandwiches
- Holding sauces and ingredients in the pocket
Texture
Pita pockets tend to have a softer, puffier, and lighter texture than traditional pita bread. The interior pocket is pillowy soft, allowing it to cradle sandwich ingredients without getting soggy.
Pita bread has a denser, chewier texture since it deflates after baking. The interior lacks the air pocket of pita pockets.
Availability
Both types of flatbread are widely available:
- Pita bread can be found in most grocery stores near other breads.
- Pita pockets are common at grocery stores, delis, restaurants, and food trucks.
- You can also easily make both types at home.
Nutrition
Since pita bread and pockets have very similar ingredients, their nutrition profiles are comparable:
| Nutrition Facts | Pita Bread | Pita Pocket |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 165 per piece | 170 per piece |
| Carbs | 33g | 34g |
| Protein | 5g | 6g |
| Fat | 1g | 1g |
| Fiber | 2g | 3g |
Both make an excellent source of carbohydrates and plant-based protein. Pita pockets are slightly higher in calories, carbs, protein, and fiber thanks to their pillowy texture.
Price
Pita bread is generally the more affordable option. Pita pockets tend to cost a little more due to their production methods and shaping.
Expect pita bread to cost around $1-$3 per pack, while pita pockets may be priced from $3-$5 per pack.
Conclusion
While pita bread and pita pockets share similarities, their different shapes, textures, uses, and pricing make them distinct types of flatbread. Pita bread offers an affordable, versatile flatbread, while pita pockets are ideal for stuffing and sandwich-making thanks to their handy interior pocket.