Print

Crispy Lebanese Beef Pita Arayes Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 119 reviews

Crispy Lebanese Beef Pita Arayes is a delicious Middle Eastern dish featuring pita bread stuffed with a spiced ground beef mixture, then grilled, pan-fried, or baked to golden perfection. This recipe is perfect for a flavorful appetizer or a hearty snack, offering a delightful blend of aromatic spices and a satisfying crispy texture.

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 tablespoon 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 beef mixture for some heat.
  • Incorporate tahini into the filling or serve as a dip to enhance the flavor.
  • Sprinkle chopped pine nuts inside the filling for added crunch and texture.
  • Ensure the beef is evenly distributed inside the pita to prevent bursting during cooking.
  • Use medium heat when grilling or pan-frying to achieve a crispy crust without burning.
  • Leftover arayes can be reheated in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.

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