Puffy Pitas

Combine 1 1/2 cups of flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly and then add yeast.

Add hot water and oil, and beat at low speed with electric blender until blended. Beat at high speed for 3 minutes.

Stir in 1 1/2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, with wooden spoon.

Turn dough out onto a well floured surface, and knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes, adding remaining flour as needed.

Place in a well greased bowl, turning to grease top of dough. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 20 to 25 minutes, or until doubled in bulk.

Punch dough down and turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead dough lightly 4 or 5 times. Divided into 8 portions and shape each into a 6 1/2 inch circle. Place each circle on a lightly greased tray and let dough rise again in a warm place, uncovered, for 15 minutes or until doubled in bulk.

Bake at 500 degrees on lowest oven rack 5 minutes, or until pitas are puffed and lightly browned. Carefully turn over a bake another 2 minutes.

Remove from the oven and serve hot. For an extra treat, slice each pita in half and fill with humus and pesto; or spread your favorite mustard on the inside and fill with turkey slices and tomato for a pocket sandwich!