Are you wondering how many carbs are in a pita? If you’re following a low-carb diet or counting your macros, then it’s important to know the nutritional value of the foods you eat. In this article, we will look at the number of carbs in a pita and some other essential things you need to know about this popular bread.
The Nutritional Value of Pitas
Pitas are round, flatbreads that are commonly eaten in many parts of the world. They are made from wheat flour, water, and yeast and are often used in the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Pita bread can be used to make sandwiches, pizzas, or eaten on its own, and they are a staple in many households.
The nutritional value of pita bread varies depending on the recipe and the type of flour used. Generally, a medium-sized pita bread of 6 inches in diameter contains:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 165 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 33 g |
| Protein | 5.5 g |
| Fat | 1.5 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
As you can see, pita bread contains a significant amount of carbohydrates, which might be a concern for individuals who follow a low-carb diet. The next section will delve into the specific amount of carbs in a pita bread.
How Many Carbs are in a Pita?
The number of carbs in a pita depends on the size of the bread and the recipe used. However, a medium-sized pita bread of 6 inches in diameter contains about 33 grams of carbohydrates. This amount is relatively high, and it might account for a significant proportion of your daily carbohydrate intake.
If you’re following a low-carb diet, you might want to consider using a smaller-size pita or a low-carb alternative like lettuce wraps, almond flour wraps or flaxseed wraps instead.
Pita Bread vs. Whole Wheat Bread
Whole wheat bread is touted as the go-to option for people looking to switch to a healthier bread choice. However, pita bread can be a better option in some cases. A medium-sized pita bread contains about 33 grams of carbohydrates, while a serving of whole wheat bread of the same weight contains about 12 grams of carbohydrates.
While whole wheat bread is generally a healthier bread option, pita bread is a great alternative if you’re looking for a quick bread option with a unique flavor that can be used in various dishes.
How to Make Low Carb Pita Bread
Did you know that you can make your low-carb pita bread? Here is a recipe you can use:
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 3 tablespoons coconut flour
- 1 tablespoon psyllium husk powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼-1/2 cup warm water
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 375°F.
- Mix all the dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Add olive oil and gradually add water while mixing gently until the dough is soft and malleable.
- Divide the dough into small-sized balls.
- Roll out each ball to a thickness of about ¼ inch.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown on the edges
Tasty Ways to Enjoy Pita Bread
Pita bread is a versatile bread that can be used in many different dishes. Here are some popular and delicious ways to enjoy pita bread:
1. Shawarma
Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish that features perfectly cooked meat that is served with salad, veggies and a generous dollop of sauce all wrapped in a pita bread. The combination is mouthwatering and gives you a great excuse to indulge in a pita.
2. Sandwiches
Pita bread sandwiches are a great option for a quick lunch or snack. You can fill your pita with your favorite ingredients like chicken strips, avocado, hummus or arugula leaves.
3. Pita Pizza
You can swap the traditional pizza dough with a pita bread crust to create a pizza that’s light but still filling. Top your pita bread with your favorite toppings like cheese, tomato sauce or pepperoni slices and pop it in the oven for a few minutes.
4. Pita Chips and Dip
Cut your pita bread into wedges and bake until crisp. Pair with some hommus or yogurt dipping sauce for an easy appetizer or snack.
Conclusion
Pita bread is a delicious and versatile bread that’s a staple in many households around the world. While it contains a significant amount of carbohydrates, you can still enjoy it in moderation and make low-carb versions at home. Remember to make smart choices by opting for healthier pita fillings like veggies, homemade hummus or lean proteins like chicken or grilled seafood.
FAQs
- How many calories are in a pita?
- Can pita bread make you gain weight?
- Is pita bread vegan?
A medium-sized pita bread of 6 inches in diameter contains 165 calories.
Pita bread on its own is not responsible for weight gain. However, adding high-calorie and high-fat fillings can increase your calorie intake and lead to weight gain.
Yes, pita bread is vegan as it contains no animal products or by-products.
References
1. Harvard Health Publishing. The skinny on grains. 2019. https://www.health.harvard.edu/nutrition/the-skinny-on-grains
2. Healthline. How to make low carb pita bread in 20 minutes. Accessed 6th August 2021. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/low-carb-pita-bread
3. WebMD. The truth about bread. 2018. https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/the-truth-about-bread