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Arayes

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Arayes is a delicious Middle Eastern dish made with pita bread stuffed with seasoned ground meat and cooked until crispy and golden. These savory stuffed pitas are juicy inside, crunchy outside, and perfect for appetizers, snacks, or main meals.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef or lamb
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 pita breads
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing
  • Yogurt sauce (optional serving item)
  • Tahini sauce (optional serving item)
  • Pickles (optional serving item)
  • Lemon wedges (optional serving item)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a grill pan over medium heat.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, garlic, parsley, paprika, cumin, coriander, black pepper, salt, and olive oil.
  3. Mix gently until the ingredients are evenly combined.
  4. Cut each pita bread in half to create pockets.
  5. Stuff each pita half with a thin layer of the meat mixture, spreading it evenly inside.
  6. Press the pita gently to flatten slightly.
  7. Brush the outside of the pitas lightly with olive oil.
  8. Place the stuffed pitas on a baking sheet or grill pan.
  9. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the pita is crispy and the meat is fully cooked.
  10. Serve warm with yogurt sauce, tahini sauce, pickles, or lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Ground chicken or turkey can be used instead of beef or lamb.
  • Add chili flakes for extra heat and spice.
  • Mix shredded cheese into the filling for a richer variation.
  • Outdoor grilling adds delicious smoky flavor.
  • Pine nuts add extra texture and richness to the filling.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness.

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