Description
Arayes are a beloved Lebanese street food, featuring crispy pita bread stuffed with a savory blend of spiced ground beef or lamb. This quick and easy Middle Eastern dish is packed with flavor, making it perfect for a simple dinner or appetizer. Serve it warm with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Assembly:
- 4 large pita breads, cut into halves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
- Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. Stir until well combined.
- Stuff the Pitas: Cut the pita breads into halves and gently open the pockets. Stuff each pita half with an even layer of the meat mixture, pressing lightly to spread the filling.
- Cook the Arayes:
- Grill or Pan-Fry: Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Brush both sides of the stuffed pitas with olive oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently until golden brown and crispy.
- Bake Option: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, place a heavy pan on top of the arayes while grilling.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicier kick.
- Serve with tahini sauce, yogurt dip, or garlic sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Street Food
- Method: Grilling / Baking
- Cuisine: Lebanese / Middle Eastern
