Crispy Arayes (Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita)

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These Arayes are crispy pita stuffed with a juicy Lebanese meat mixture with lots of fresh aromatics and lemon zest for a satisfying dinner recipe! It's delicious when enjoyed with creamy tzatziki and pickled onions.

Ingredients you'll need:

  • Tzatziki, for serving
  • 4-5 Pita Bread
  • 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
  • 1 lb. Lean Ground Beef
  • ½ Red Onion, very finely chopped or grated
  • 2-3 Garlic Cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp. Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • (Optional) 1 tbsp. Fresh Mint, chopped
  • 1 Lemon
  • 2 tsp. EACH: Paprika, & Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp. EACH: Salt, Black Pepper, & Ground All Spice

How to Make Arayes:

  1. Preheat oven to 400F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, and seasonings. Mix just until combined. If time allows, let marinate for 10-30 minutes.
  3. Slice the pita breads in halve to create pita pockets. Evenly divide the meat mixture out between the halve pitas, then stuff well into the pitas. Flatten slightly with your hands to secure the meat inside.
  4. Heat up the griddle over medium heat for 2 minutes.
  5. Brush the arayes with olive oil. If making smaller arayes, use a serrated knife to slice the pita halves into quarters.
  6. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute on all sides, until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Transfer to the baking sheet to finish cooking in the oven 5-12 minutes, depending on how thick you make the arayes.
  8. Enjoy warm with tzatziki!

The KEY to Crispy Arayes is using a griddle! My current favorite is Made In's Carbon Steel Griddle for a few reasons:

  • Award winning and ultra durable (made in Sweden)
  • Ideal for high-heat cooking both indoors and outdoors - think the best seared steaks ever!!
  • Compatible with Gas, Electric, and Induction Cooktops
  • Naturally Non Stick
  • Incredible heat control up to 1200F - I mean, WOW!

Click here for my DISCOUNT CODE with Made In!

One of my favorite parts about working with brands I love is providing you all with promo codes to shop!!

BUT ALSO!! I have a set of their Entreé Bowls in Red Rim that can be heated up to 580F – literally can’t live without now!!

Can Arayes be Made in Advance?

Yes, you can make arayes up to 3 days in advance. I recommend not cooking them until ready to serve; however, if you do decide to cook them, just reheat at 350F until warmed through and crispy again.

How to Reheat Arayes?

Reheat arayes directly on a clean baking pan in the oven at 375F for 4-5 minutes, then flip, and cook another 3-5 minutes. The outside should be crispy one again, but keep an eye on them so they don't burn.

What to Serve with Arayes?

  • Tzatziki
  • Red Onions
  • Creamy Tahini Dipping Sauce
  • Lemon Dill Hummus
  • Chimichurri
  • Pesto

Meat Alternatives:

I love using 90/10 lean ground beef, but you could also use the following substations.

  • Ground Bison
  • Ground Lamb
  • Half Beef, Half Lamb
  • Ground Chicken

Cook with me! ⬇️

I truly hope you all enjoy this treasured recipe that has nestled its way into our hearts here in the ABM kitchen! ’till next time… xxL

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If you loved this delicious recipe I would truly appreciate it so much if you would give a star review! Also, be sure to snap a picture of your finished dish and share it with me on Instagram - tagging me @brightmomentco. It always makes my day seeing y’alls creations!

For more great A Bright Moment recipes, be sure to follow me on Pinterest, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram.

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“"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ~ Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

Crispy Arayes (Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita)

Crispy pita stuffed with a juicy Lebanese meat mixture for an easy, delicious dinner recipe!

PREP:
15
MINS
HOURS
COOK:
20
MINS
HOURS
TOTAL:
35
MINS
HOURS
TOTAL:
35

Ingredients

Servings: 6

  • Equipment: Made In Carbon Steel Griddle
  • Tzatziki, for serving
  • 4-5 Pita Bread
  • 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
  • 1 lb. Lean Ground Beef
  • ½ Red Onion, very finely chopped or grated
  • 2-3 Garlic Cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp. Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • (Optional) 1 tbsp. Fresh Mint, chopped
  • 1 Lemon
  • 2 tsp. EACH: Paprika, & Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp. EACH: Salt, Black Pepper, & Ground All Spice

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, and seasonings. Mix just until combined. If time allows, let marinate for 10-30 minutes.
  3. Slice the pita breads in halve to create pita pockets. Evenly divide the meat mixture out between the halve pitas, then stuff well into the pitas. Flatten slightly with your hands to secure the meat inside.
  4. Heat up the griddle over medium heat for 2 minutes.
  5. Brush the arayes with olive oil. If making smaller arayes, use a serrated knife to slice the pita halves into quarters.
  6. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute on all sides, until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Transfer to the baking sheet to finish cooking in the oven 5-12 minutes, depending on how thick you make the arayes.
  8. Enjoy warm with tzatziki!

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