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Crispy Lebanese Beef Pita Arayes Recipe

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4.7 from 108 reviews

Crispy Lebanese Beef Pita Arayes are stuffed pita pockets filled with a flavorful spiced ground beef mixture, then grilled, pan-fried, or baked until perfectly golden and crispy. This traditional Middle Eastern street food makes a quick and delicious meal or snack, combining aromatic spices with juicy meat and crunchy pita.

Ingredients

Beef Filling

  • ½ lb (225g) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
  • ½ small onion, grated
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Pita and Finishing

  • 2 (6-inch) pita breads, halved to form 4 pockets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)

Optional Add-ins

  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes for heat
  • 1 tablespoon tahini for extra flavor
  • Chopped pine nuts for crunch

Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  2. Stuff the pita: Carefully cut each pita bread in half and gently open each pocket. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture into each pocket. Flatten the filling evenly inside the pita to ensure consistent cooking.
  3. Brush and flatten: Lightly brush both sides of the stuffed pita with olive oil, then press gently to distribute the filling evenly and help the pita crisp up during cooking.
  4. Cook: Choose your preferred method:
    • Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat. Grill each arayes pocket for about 4–5 minutes per side, until the pita is golden brown and crispy, and the beef is cooked through.
    • Skillet: Heat a dry nonstick pan over medium heat. Cook the arayes, flipping when the side is golden and crispy, until evenly cooked on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side.
    • Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the arayes on a baking tray and bake for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the pita is crisp and the meat is cooked thoroughly.
  5. Serve hot: Let the arayes rest briefly after cooking. Slice each pita pocket, then serve warm with your favorite dips or fresh salads.

Notes

  • You can add chili flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
  • Including tahini in the beef mixture adds a rich, nutty flavor.
  • Sprinkle chopped pine nuts inside for an extra crunchy texture.
  • Ensure the filling is evenly flattened inside the pita for uniform cooking.
  • Arayes are best enjoyed fresh and hot right after cooking.

Find it online: https://forkvista.com/crispy-lebanese-beef-pita-arayes-recipe/