Arayes (Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita)

Arayes are a popular Lebanese street food that features pita bread stuffed with a flavorful, spiced meat mixture and then grilled until crispy and golden. Perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or a light meal, these crispy meat-stuffed pitas are paired with a whipped tahini yogurt sauce that adds a creamy, tangy contrast. Simple to make and incredibly satisfying, they’re a delightful addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Arayes are packed with savory, spiced flavors from the lamb (or beef), and the crispy pita adds a satisfying crunch. The spices like cumin, paprika, and allspice create a warm, fragrant filling, while the creamy tahini yogurt sauce complements it perfectly with its rich texture and bright lemony tang. This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted for spice, making it perfect for anyone who loves Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• ½ brown onion (grated)

• 500g (1 lb) lamb or beef mince (ground meat)

• 2 garlic cloves (finely grated)

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley (optional)

• 3 teaspoons ground coriander

• 3 teaspoons ground cumin

• 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika (or plain paprika)

• ¾ teaspoon ground allspice (or mixed spice)

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for spice level)

• 1 ¼ teaspoons cooking/kosher salt

For the Whipped Tahini Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• 2 tablespoons tahini (or Chinese sesame paste)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 garlic clove (finely grated)

• ½ teaspoon cooking/kosher salt

For the Pita:

• 5 pita bread (the thin pocket type, ~15cm/6″ diameter, cut in half)

• Olive oil spray (or brush with olive oil)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Meat Filling:

1. Grate the onion into a bowl (use a standard box grater). The juices from the onion are important, so include them.

2. Add the minced lamb (or beef), garlic, parsley (if using), and all the spices to the grated onion. Mix well by hand until combined.

2. Stuff the Pitas:

1. Divide the meat mixture into 10 portions (about 55-60g/1/4 cup per portion).

2. Flatten each portion into a semi-circle shape slightly smaller than the pita bread half.

3. Gently open each pita pocket and stuff the meat inside. Press the pita down to spread the filling evenly and seal the edges.

3. Cooking Arayes:

1. Preheat your oven to 50°C/120°F and place a rack on a tray to keep the cooked Arayes warm.

2. Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Spray both sides of the pitas with olive oil.

3. Cook the pitas in the pan, 2 or 3 at a time (depending on the size of your pan), for about 2 minutes on each side, pressing down lightly with a spatula to ensure they cook evenly and become golden and crispy.

4. Keep Warm:

1. Once cooked, transfer the Arayes onto the rack in the oven to keep warm while you cook the remaining pitas.

5. Make the Whipped Tahini Sauce:

1. In a heatproof bowl, combine the yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.

2. Microwave for 15 seconds on high, then whisk to combine until it resembles soft whipped cream. Serve the sauce slightly warm or at room temperature.

6. Serve:

1. Once all Arayes are cooked, pile them onto a platter. Optionally, cut them in half to serve.

2. Serve with the whipped tahini yogurt sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10 pita halves

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Meat Substitution: While lamb is traditional, beef or even chicken can be used for the filling. For a vegetarian version, substitute with spiced vegetables or a plant-based ground meat.

• Spicy Option: Increase the cayenne pepper for a spicier kick or add fresh chopped chili to the meat mixture.

• Herb Options: Swap parsley for cilantro or mint for a slightly different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Arayes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the sauce, store separately in a sealed container.

• Reheating: Reheat the Arayes in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes to crisp them up again, or microwave them if you’re in a hurry. The tahini yogurt sauce can be served cold or slightly warmed.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of bread for this recipe?

You can use other flatbreads, but pita is the traditional choice for Arayes. Using thicker pita may require slightly longer cooking time.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed pita pockets in advance, store them in the fridge, and then cook them just before serving.

Can I bake these instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the stuffed pitas in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.

Can I make the whipped tahini sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just whisk it again before serving.

What can I serve with Arayes?

Arayes can be served with a side salad (like a fattoush salad), hummus, or a tabbouleh salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Conclusion

Crispy Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita – Arayes, with its flavorful spiced meat filling and crispy, golden crust, is a dish that’s perfect for both a snack and a meal. Paired with the creamy and tangy whipped tahini yogurt sauce, Arayes offers a deliciously authentic taste of Lebanese street food that is sure to impress. Enjoy this satisfying and savory dish with your favorite sides for a true Mediterranean feast!

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