PITA BREAD

2 1/4 teaspoons active baker's yeast
3 cups bread flour (plus additional flour for rolling)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
3/4 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
1 cup plus 3 Tablespoons water

Place ingredients in machine in order recommended by manufacturer. Process using the DOUGH setting.

WHEN DOUGH IS READY TO SHAPE:
On lightly floured work surface, cut dough in half and cut each half into six equal pieces. Lightly sprinkle with flour. Shape pieces into smooth balls.

With a lightly floured rolling pin, roll each ball into a flat 4-inch disk. Lightly sprinkle both sides with flour. Cover with a clean kitchen cloth and let rise 30 minutes on work surface.

Meanwhile, place a 13x9x1-inch baking pan in oven. Preheat oven to 500 degrees F.

Place four of the risen pita breads on preheated baking pan.

Bake approximately 5 minutes or until breads puff up and just begin to brown. Remove from oven and cool on wire rack. Continue baking remaining pita breads four at a time.

Breads will collapse as they cool. If they don't, prick them with a fork.

Makes 12
Adapted from source: The Ultimate Bread Machine Cookbook by Jennie Shapter