Where did pita bread originate from?

Pita bread, also known as Arabic bread, likely originated in the Middle East, specifically in ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) around 4000 BC. It is one of the oldest forms of leavened bread known to humans. The word "pita" is derived from the Greek word "pitta," meaning "flat cake" or "baked."

Pita bread is a round, flatbread made from a simple dough of wheat flour, water, salt, and yeast. It is typically baked in a hot oven, causing the dough to puff up and form a pocket. This pocket can then be stuffed with various fillings such as meats, vegetables, cheeses, or dips, making it a versatile and popular food item throughout the Middle East and beyond.

Over the centuries, pita bread has spread from its origins in the Middle East to other regions, including the Mediterranean, Europe, and parts of Asia and Africa, becoming an integral part of the local cuisines. Different countries and cultures have adopted and adapted pita bread to suit their preferences, leading to variations in shape, size, texture, and toppings.