Pita Bread: Keto-Friendly Or Not?

Pita bread is a popular food item, but is it keto-friendly? Classic pita bread is typically made from wheat flour and is high in carbohydrates, which are restricted on a ketogenic diet. However, there are alternative ways to make pita bread that is suitable for a keto diet.

Keto pita bread is usually made with a combination of low-carb flours such as almond flour, coconut flour, and sesame seed flour. It may also include ingredients like psyllium husk, xanthan gum, and baking powder to help bind the dough and give it a chewy texture similar to traditional pita. These recipes often result in soft and pliable pita bread that can be used for wraps, sandwiches, or flatbread pizzas.

Some brands also offer keto-friendly pita bread, providing a convenient option for those following a ketogenic diet. These products typically have a similar texture and taste to regular pita bread while being lower in carbohydrates and sugar.

In conclusion, while classic pita bread may not be suitable for a keto diet, there are alternatives and options available that allow individuals to enjoy pita bread while adhering to their dietary restrictions.

Keto pita bread ingredients

Keto pita bread is a great alternative to traditional pita bread for those on a ketogenic diet. It is typically made with keto-friendly ingredients such as almond flour, coconut flour, and protein powder, and does not contain wheat flour or other high-carb ingredients. Here are the ingredients you will need to make keto pita bread and some tips on how to use them:

Almond Flour or Almond Meal

Almond flour, also known as almond meal, is a key ingredient in keto pita bread. It provides a nutty flavor and a soft, chewy texture. Be sure to use blanched and super-fine almond flour for the best results. Almond flour is also a good source of healthy fats and protein, making it a nutritious option for keto pita bread.

Coconut Flour

Coconut flour is another important ingredient in keto pita bread. It adds a subtle coconut flavor and helps to bind the ingredients together. Coconut flour is high in fiber and low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable choice for keto baking. However, it is important to note that coconut flour absorbs liquid differently than other flours, so it cannot be substituted with other types of flour in a 1:1 ratio.

Whey Protein Powder

Whey protein powder is often used in keto pita bread recipes to add structure and lift to the bread. It also provides a boost of protein, making the pita bread more filling and satisfying. If you are unable to use whey protein powder, you can try substituting it with a clean, dairy-free protein powder that does not contain thickeners or fillers.

Psyllium Husk Powder

Psyllium husk powder is a valuable ingredient in keto pita bread as it helps to create a chewy texture similar to that of traditional pita bread. It is important to use psyllium husk powder, not whole psyllium husks, as the powder form absorbs liquid better and helps create a lighter, fluffier texture.

Baking Powder

Baking powder is necessary for keto pita bread as it helps the bread rise and gives it a lighter texture. Be sure to use fresh baking powder, as old baking powder may not be effective in leavening the dough.

Avocado Oil or Olive Oil

Avocado oil or olive oil is used in keto pita bread to add moisture and richness to the dough. Avocado oil has a neutral flavor, while olive oil can add a subtle fruity taste. Either option works well, so you can choose based on your personal preference or what you have available in your pantry.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is included in keto pita bread recipes to balance flavors and assist with rising. It also helps to strengthen the dough and improve the overall consistency of the pita bread. Don't worry about the vinegar's taste—it won't be noticeable in the final product.

Egg Whites

Egg whites are an essential ingredient in keto pita bread as they provide structure and help bind the ingredients together. You can use packaged egg whites or separate fresh eggs. If you have leftover egg yolks, you can use them to make sauces or desserts like hollandaise sauce or chocolate protein ice cream.

Boiling Water

Although boiling water may seem like an unusual ingredient, it is necessary to add moisture to the keto pita bread dough. Be careful not to over-mix the dough once you have added the boiling water, as this can affect the final texture of the bread.

Optional Ingredients and Substitutions

While the above ingredients form the basis of keto pita bread, there are also some optional ingredients and substitutions you can consider:

• Xanthan Gum: This ingredient is sometimes used to help hold the pita breads together, especially if you are finding that your pita breads are crumbly or fragile.
• Inulin: Inulin is a type of fiber that can be used to activate yeast in keto pita bread recipes. It is not always necessary, but it can be helpful if you want to ensure that your yeast is active and your pita breads rise properly.
• Turmeric: Turmeric is an optional ingredient that can be added for flavor and color. It won't affect the texture of your pita breads but can give them a slightly earthier taste and a yellow hue.
• Sesame Seed Flour: If you are looking for a nut-free alternative to almond flour, sesame seed flour can be used as a substitute. It has a unique flavor that may be noticeable in the final product, but it is a good option for those with nut allergies or sensitivities.

Making keto pita bread at home allows you to enjoy a bread-like option while adhering to a ketogenic diet. By using a combination of keto-friendly ingredients, you can create a soft, chewy pita bread that can be used for wraps, sandwiches, and more. Experiment with the ingredients and substitutions to find the perfect keto pita bread recipe for your taste and dietary needs.

Is pita bread keto-friendly?

Pita bread is a popular bread choice for many, but is it suitable for those following a keto diet? The answer is a little complicated. While classic pita bread is typically not keto-friendly, there are some variations and alternatives that can fit into a keto diet.

Classic Pita Bread

Classic pita bread is generally not considered keto-friendly. It is usually made with wheat flour or white flour, which are high in carbohydrates. For those following a keto diet, it is important to minimize carbohydrate intake and replace it with healthy fats and protein.

Keto-Friendly Alternatives

However, there are some alternatives and recipes available that can satisfy your pita bread cravings while still adhering to keto diet restrictions. Here are some options:

• Keto Flatbread: There are recipes available online that use a combination of almond flour, coconut flour, and psyllium husk powder to create a soft and chewy pita bread alternative. This option is not only keto-friendly but also vegan and egg-free.
• Keto Pita Pockets: These are typically made with a blend of almond flour, coconut flour, and psyllium husk, creating a soft and pliable pita pocket that can be filled with your favorite keto-friendly fillings.
• Toufayan Keto Pita: This is a commercially available keto-friendly pita bread option. It is made with keto-friendly ingredients, containing no sugar and lower carbs than traditional pita bread.

While classic pita bread may not be suitable for a keto diet, there are some delicious alternatives and recipes available that can satisfy your pita bread cravings. With these options, you don't have to compromise your dietary restrictions and can still enjoy the versatility and taste of pita bread.

Keto pita bread recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup blanched almond flour
• 1/4 cup whey protein powder
• 3 tbsp psyllium husk powder
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup boiling water

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, stir together the almond flour, protein powder, psyllium husk powder, baking powder, and sea salt.
• Add the avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, and egg whites. Stir until well combined.
• Pour in the boiling water while beating with a hand mixer at low speed for about a minute. The dough will absorb the water. Be careful not to over-mix.
• Divide the dough into six equal portions and roll each portion into a ball. Place one ball between two pieces of lightly oiled parchment paper and roll it out to about 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) thick. Repeat this process with the remaining dough balls.
• Place the rolled-out dough onto the lined baking sheets, leaving a gap of at least 2 inches (5 cm) between each flatbread.
• Bake for approximately 15 minutes, swapping the pans on the racks halfway through, until the flatbreads are firm.
• Allow the keto pita bread to cool before serving.

Tips:

• If the dough becomes too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
• For a thicker flatbread, roll the dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch (6.4 mm).
• When transferring the flatbread to the baking sheet, use a large turner instead of your hands to avoid tearing.
• Store the keto pita bread in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warm.

How to make keto pita bread

Ingredients:

• Coconut flour
• Almond flour
• Psyllium husk powder
• Baking powder
• Salt (optional)
• Warm water
• Olive oil
• Apple cider vinegar
• Egg whites
• Whey protein powder (or non-dairy alternative)
• Xanthan gum
• Inulin or honey
• Turmeric (optional)
• Sour cream

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 180 Celsius / 350 Fahrenheit (160C / 320F fan).
• Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl: coconut flour, almond flour, psyllium husk powder, and baking powder. You can also add a pinch of salt if desired.
• Add the wet ingredients: warm water, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough for around a minute with your hands.
• Form the dough into a ball and cut it into 4-6 wedges. Roll the wedges into balls.
• Place the dough balls on an upturned baking tray lined with parchment paper.
• Cover with another sheet of parchment paper and roll out the dough into flatbreads, around 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch thick.
• Remove the top parchment paper and sprinkle with optional sesame seeds or other toppings like nigella seeds, garlic powder, or herbs.
• Bake for around 15-20 minutes, or until golden and puffy. If large air bubbles form, pierce them with a fork during baking.
• If necessary, rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even browning. You can also turn on the grill/broiler at the end for a crisp, golden finish.
• Allow the keto pita bread to cool before slicing and filling.

Tips:

• Use a rolling pin to get an even thickness for your flatbreads.
• If the dough is sticky, chill it in the fridge for 10-30 minutes before rolling.
• If you want to make pita pockets, place one round of dough on top of another and use a bowl to press down and seal the edges. Carefully remove the pita from the bowl and bake as usual.
• To store, keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. You can also freeze the pita bread for up to 3 months.

Storing keto pita bread

You can also freeze keto pita bread. To do this, first allow the bread to cool completely, then place pieces of parchment paper between each pita to prevent them from sticking together. Then, transfer the pita bread into a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months.

To defrost, simply leave the pita bread at room temperature until thawed. You can also warm the pita bread in the oven or skillet to enhance its flavor.

Frequently asked questions