Arayes
Lebanese Grilled Meat Pitas
A classic Lebanese street food, Arayes are pita breads stuffed with a flavorful mixture of spiced ground lamb and then grilled until golden brown and crispy. The result is a delicious, savory pocket with a satisfying crunch.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 Pita bread(About 6-8 inches in diameter)
- 400 g Ground lamb(Can substitute with ground beef or a mix)
- 1 medium Yellow onion
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley
- 1 tsp Lebanese 7 spice blend(Adjust to taste. If unavailable, use a mix of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and black pepper.)
- 1 tbsp Pomegranate molasses(Adds a unique tangy sweetness. Available at Middle Eastern grocers or online.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil(For brushing the pitas)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the meat filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ground lamb, finely minced onion, chopped parsley, Lebanese 7 spice, pomegranate molasses, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated, but avoid overmixing, which can make the meat tough. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Prepare the pitas: Carefully slice each pita bread in half horizontally to create two pockets. Alternatively, you can cut a slit along one edge of each pita to create a pocket without fully separating the halves.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Stuff the pitas: Divide the meat mixture evenly among the 4 pita halves (or 8 quarters if cut in half). Gently open each pita pocket and stuff it with the meat mixture, spreading it evenly to fill the pocket. Press the meat down firmly and flatten the pita slightly to ensure the filling is secure and the pita is relatively flat for even cooking.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Cook the Arayes: Heat a grill pan, outdoor grill, or a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the outside of the stuffed pitas with olive oil. Place the Arayes on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the pita is golden brown and crispy, and the lamb filling is cooked through and no longer pink. You should hear a gentle sizzle and see some char marks.
⏱️ 12-15 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Pressing the meat filling firmly into the pita ensures it stays put during cooking and helps it cook evenly.
- ✓The goal is a crispy exterior with a juicy, well-spiced interior. Adjust cooking time slightly based on your heat source.
- ✓Serve hot with a side of plain yogurt, a fresh Arabic salad (like tomato, cucumber, and parsley), or a tahini sauce.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or akkawi cheese inside the pita along with the meat for a cheesy Arayes.
- Increase the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- For a vegetarian version, use a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, and spices.