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Crispy Lebanese Arayes

Crispy Lebanese Arayes: Irresistibly Juicy Pita Perfection

Crispy Lebanese Arayes are grilled meat-stuffed pita pockets that bring Mediterranean flavors to your table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Resting Time 1 minute
Total Time 24 minutes
Servings: 4 pockets
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 lb Ground Lamb (or beef) Halal-friendly
  • 1 small Red Onion Mince finely
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 1/4 cup Flat-leaf Parsley Finely chopped
  • 1 medium Tomato Grated or minced
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Ground Coriander
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Allspice
  • 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil High-quality recommended
For the Pita
  • 4 pieces Lebanese-style Pita Bread Can substitute with flour tortillas
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 cup Gruyere Cheese Omit for traditional flavor
  • 1/2 cup Rao's Sauce Optional for extra flavor

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Mixing Bowl
  • pastry brush

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, grated tomato, and chopped parsley. Add ground cumin, coriander, paprika, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle in olive oil and mix until evenly incorporated.
  2. Assemble the Pita Pockets: Cut each Lebanese pita bread in half to create a pocket. Stuff each pocket with the prepared meat mixture without overstuffing. Optional: add grated Gruyere cheese or Rao's sauce.
  3. Brush with Olive Oil: Coat the outside of each stuffed pita with olive oil using a pastry brush for added crispiness.
  4. Cook: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Grill the stuffed pitas for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  5. Serve: Remove from grill, let rest, and cut into wedges for sharing or serve whole.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pocketCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Let the Arayes rest for a minute before serving to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy with salad or hummus for a complete meal.

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