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Crispy Lebanese Arayes

Crispy Lebanese Arayes: Juicy Pita Pockets for Comfort Food Cravings

Savor the delicious flavors of Crispy Lebanese Arayes, filled with juicy meat and spices, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 4 pockets
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Lebanese
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 lb ground lamb or mix of lamb and beef Halal-friendly options available
  • 1 small red onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • 1 medium tomato grated or minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pockets
  • 4 Lebanese-style pita breads or flour tortillas as substitute
  • 1 cup Gruyere cheese optional
  • 1/2 cup Raos sauce optional

Equipment

  • Grill
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Lebanese Arayes
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated tomato, and chopped parsley. Add the spices: ground cumin, coriander, paprika, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in olive oil to bind the filling together, then mix gently with your hands until combined without overworking the meat.
  2. Take your Lebanese-style pita breads and cut each in half to create pockets. Generously spoon the meat mixture into each pocket, filling them about three-quarters full to allow for expansion. If desired, sprinkle some optional Gruyere cheese or add a spoonful of Raos sauce before sealing them up to infuse even more flavor into your crispy Lebanese Arayes.
  3. Lightly brush the outside of each stuffed pita with olive oil. This step is vital for achieving that golden, crispy texture while grilling.
  4. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Place the stuffed pita pockets on the grill, cooking them for about 3–4 minutes on each side. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even browning, watching for a crispy, golden exterior.
  5. Once your Crispy Lebanese Arayes are beautifully grilled, remove them from the heat and slice them into wedges. Serve them warm with hummus, fresh salad, or tabbouleh.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pocketCalories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients and don’t overmix the filling for best results.

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