No Pita Pit? No worries – homemade versions are even better (and cheaper)

The loss of several Pita Pit outlets up and down the motu will be mourned by many Kiwis who enjoy a combo of tasty protein and fresh salad in a bread pocket or wrap for lunch.

But the likes of Pita Pit’s signature fillings, like chipotle prawns, falafel balls, teriyaki chicken or grilled steak are actually very simple to make at home, and even at today’s astronomical grocery prices will come in at much less than the Pit’s pitas, which hover around $15 on average.

All the below recipes are also very versatile. You can put these fillings in a pita with whatever accompaniments you like, or in a taco, or you can serve them on rice, in a burger, next to some roast veg, or as a salad topping, for just a few ideas.

Master a few of these and you might never need to buy your lunch again.

Barbecue chipotle prawn tacos

Get the recipe here

The salsa in this recipe makes a great addition to these prawns, but they’d be just as delicious without it.

Green pea falafel with loaded hummus

Get the recipe here

The addition of spinach makes this falafel extra healthy (and green!). It’s fun and easy to make your own hummus, too, and it goes with just about anything.

Bean patties

Get the recipe here

A burger is just another type of sandwich – try out these patties in a lunchbox-friendly pita.

Teriyaki chicken

Get the recipe here

It’s easier than you think to make your own teriyaki sauce, and it can be used on fish or red meat too.

Marinated steak

Get the recipe here

Simple as, tasty as.

Quick and easy pita bread

Get the recipe here

If you really get into this homemade lunch thing, why not have a go at making your own pitas?