Khubz Arabi (Pita or Flat Bread)

These are Excellent! This recipe takes some time to accomplish, but the end result is a little magic in the kitchen and so satisfying as a cook! The cooking time is per batch - this makes 24 and you'll probably have to do at least 4 batches in your oven depending on the size (of your oven). At least, much of the prep time is inactive time while waiting for the dough to rise. All in all, they are pretty easy to make (if not on a time schedule).

• Ready In: 2 hrs 10 mins
• Serves: 24
• Yields: 24 pitas

Ingredients

• 2 1⁄2 cups warm water
• 2 (1/4ounce) packages active dry yeast
• 1  tablespoon salt
• 6  cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2  tablespoons  vegetable oil

Directions

1. In a large bowl, scatter the yeast over the warm water and stir until dissolved.
2. Add the salt.
3. While kneading constantly, gradually add 6 cups of flour and 2 tablespoons of oil until the dough is smooth and elastic. Continue to add more flour if the dough still sticks to your hands.
4. Put the dough into a large, greased bowl and turn dough to grease all sides of it.
5. Cover with a dry tea towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 1/2 hours.
6. Preheat oven to 375-degrees F.
7. Punch dough down gently.
8. Divide the dough into 24 equal portions and shape them each into smooth balls.
9. Place on a floured surface and dust tops lightly with flour. Cover with a dry tea towel.
10. Let rest undisturbed 15 minutes more.
11. Roll out each ball into a 6-inch diameter circle.
12. Place on greased baking sheets.
13. Bake in 375-degree F oven for 10-12 minutes or until the bread puffs. Do not leave baking unattended.
14. YUM!