Low-calorie pita bread is a type of pita bread made with fewer calories than traditional pita bread. This can be achieved by using alternative ingredients or reducing the amount of certain ingredients in the recipe.
One common way to make low-calorie pita bread is to use whole wheat flour or a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, which provides more fiber and nutrients than white flour. Another way is to use less oil in the dough or to omit it entirely. Some recipes may also use nonfat yogurt or other low-calorie substitutes.
Low-calorie pita bread can be a good option for those who are watching their calorie intake or looking for healthier alternatives to traditional bread. However, it’s important to check the nutritional information and ingredients list of store-bought low-calorie pita bread to ensure it fits your dietary needs and preferences.
Difference Between Normal Pita Bread & Low-Calorie Pita Bread
The main difference between normal pita bread and low-calorie pita bread is the number of calories they contain. Normal pita bread is typically made with white flour and may contain oil, which can contribute to its calorie count. On the other hand, low-calorie pita bread is often made with whole wheat flour or a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour and may contain little or no oil, reducing its calorie count.
In terms of taste and texture. Low-calorie pita bread may be slightly denser and less fluffy than traditional pita bread, but it can still be used in the same way for filling or dipping. Additionally, low-calorie pita bread may contain more fiber and nutrients than traditional pita bread due to the use of whole wheat flour.
It’s important to note that the specific nutritional content of pita bread can vary depending on the brand and recipe. When comparing normal pita bread to low-calorie pita bread, it’s important to check the nutritional information and ingredients list to determine which option is best for your dietary needs and preferences.
Healthy Pita Bread
Low-calorie pita bread can be a healthy option for those who are watching their calorie intake or looking for healthier alternatives to traditional bread. However, it’s important to consider the overall nutritional content of the pita bread, including its fiber, protein, and micronutrient content.
Pita bread made with whole wheat flour or a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour can be a good source of fiber and nutrients, such as B vitamins, iron, and magnesium. Additionally, using less or no oil in the dough can reduce the amount of saturated and trans fats in the bread.
However, it’s important to note that low-calorie pita bread may still contain added sugars, preservatives, or other additives that may not benefit health. It’s always a good idea to check the ingredient list and nutritional information when purchasing low-calorie pita bread or any packaged food.
In general, consuming low-calorie pita bread as part of a balanced and varied diet and plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can be a healthy choice.
How To Make Low-Calorie Pita Bread
Here is a simple recipe for low-calorie pita bread that you can make at home:
Low-Calorie Pita Bread
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp. active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup nonfat plain yogurt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the warm water and nonfat plain yogurt to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 8-10 pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
- Place the circles on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, until they puff up and turn golden brown.
- Remove the pita bread from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
FAQS
Is pita bread keto-friendly?
Traditional pita bread is not considered keto-friendly because it contains relatively high amounts of carbohydrates. A 2-ounce (56-gram) serving of regular pita bread can contain around 26 grams of carbohydrates, with only 4 grams of fiber.
For a food to be considered keto-friendly, it should contain a very low amount of carbohydrates, typically less than 5% of total calories, and a higher amount of fat. This helps the body enter a state of ketosis, which burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.
However, low-carbohydrate and keto-friendly pita bread can be made with alternative flours such as almond flour, coconut flour, or flaxseed meal, which have lower carbohydrate content. These versions of pita bread may also contain more healthy fats, such as coconut or avocado.
If you are following a ketogenic diet, reading the nutrition label and ingredients list carefully is important to ensure that the pita bread you consume fits your dietary goals and preferences.
What is the healthiest bread you can eat?
When it comes to bread, the healthiest option is generally one that is made from whole grains and has a high fiber content. Here are some of the healthiest bread options you can eat:
- Whole grain bread: Made from whole grains, which contain all parts of the grain, including the germ, bran, and endosperm. Whole grain breads are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Sprouted grain bread: Made from whole grains that have been sprouted, which can make the nutrients in the grains more available for absorption. Sprouted grain breads are often higher in protein and fiber than regular breads.
- Sourdough bread: Made using a sourdough starter, a fermented mixture of flour and water. Sourdough breads are lower in phytic acid, which can interfere with nutrient absorption in the body.
- Ezekiel bread: Made from sprouted grains and legumes, such as wheat, barley, lentils, and beans. Ezekiel breads are high in protein, fiber, and nutrients.
- Rye bread: Made from rye flour, which is lower in gluten than wheat flour. Rye bread is often denser and more flavorful than wheat bread and can be a good source of fiber and nutrients.
It’s important to note that even the healthiest bread should be consumed in moderation, as they can still contribute to carbohydrate and calorie intake. Additionally, it’s important to read the ingredients list and nutrition facts label to ensure that the bread you choose fits your dietary needs and preferences.
Is pita bread good for losing weight?
Whether pita bread is good for losing weight depends on several factors, including the ingredients and the portion size.
Traditional pita bread is made from refined wheat flour, which is low in fiber and can cause blood sugar spikes. Eating too much refined carbohydrates can contribute to weight gain.
However, lower calorie and lower carbohydrate versions of pita bread can be a part of a healthy weight loss diet. These versions are typically made from whole grain flours, which are higher in fiber and nutrients. They may also have a lower calorie content and can be used in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
It’s important to remember portion sizes when consuming pita bread, as it’s easy to overeat and consume more calories than intended. One 2-ounce (56-gram) pita bread is typically considered one serving size, and it provides around 100-130 calories, depending on the recipe and ingredients used.
Whether pita bread is good for weight loss depends on how it is incorporated into an overall healthy and balanced diet, along with other factors such as physical activity and individual dietary needs and preferences.
What is the best flour for pita bread?
The best flour for making pita bread is typically high-protein, such as bread or all-purpose flour. These flours have a higher gluten content, which helps the dough stretch and rises properly, resulting in a light and fluffy pita bread.
However, some people may prefer whole grain flours, such as whole wheat or spelled flour, which are higher in fiber and nutrients than refined flours. These flours may produce slightly denser and more flavorful pita bread, but they can still be delicious and nutritious.
Another option is to use a combination of flour, such as a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour, to balance texture and nutrition.
Ultimately, the choice of flour depends on personal preference and dietary needs, and there is no one “best” flour for making pita bread. Experimenting with different flours and recipes is important to find the best one.
Is pita bread freezer-friendly?
Yes, pita bread is freezer-friendly and can be stored in the freezer for several months. Freezing pita bread is a great way to extend its shelf life and prevent it from becoming stale.
To freeze pita bread, first, ensure it is completely cool and at room temperature. Then, place the pita bread in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Separating the individual pitas with parchment paper or plastic wrap is a good idea to prevent them from sticking together.
When ready to use the frozen pita bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can also place the frozen pita bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to warm it up.
Remember that freezing pita bread may affect its texture and flavor slightly, but it’s still a convenient and practical way to store this versatile bread.
What can I make with pita bread?
Pita bread is a versatile and delicious bread used in various dishes. Here are some ideas for what you can make with pita bread:
- Pita Pockets: Cut the pita bread in half and fill it with your favorite ingredients, such as hummus, falafel, veggies, and meats.
- Pita Chips: Cut the pita bread into small triangles, brush with olive oil, and bake in the oven until crispy. Serve with dips like hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki.
- Pita Pizza: Top the pita bread with tomato sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Pita Sandwiches: Use pita bread to make a delicious sandwich with your favorite ingredients, such as grilled chicken, veggies, and sauces.
- Pita Bread Salad: Cut the pita bread into small pieces and toast in the oven until crispy. Mix with chopped veggies, herbs, and dressing for a delicious and crunchy salad.
- Pita Bread Tacos: Fill the pita bread with your favorite taco ingredients, such as seasoned ground beef, lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
- Pita Bread Breakfast: Pita bread is a base for a delicious breakfast sandwich filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon or sausage.
These are just a few ideas for what you can make with pita bread. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients!