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Arayes (Middle Eastern Stuffed Pitas)

Arayes are crispy Middle Eastern stuffed pitas filled with spiced ground meat, then grilled or baked until golden brown and juicy inside. This easy arayes recipe delivers bold flavor, a perfectly crisp exterior, and a tender, well-seasoned filling every time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 / 6 Servings
Calories: 232
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Ground Beef or Lamb (85/15 recommended )
  • 1/2 Onion (grated and liquid pressed out)
  • 3 Garlic Cloves (minced )
  • 4 tbsp Parsley (minced )
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 tsp Cumin
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Allspice
  • 1/2 tsp Coriander
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Red Pepper Paste (optional )
  • 3 Pita Breads (halved )
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (for brushing )
  • 2 tsp Red Pepper Paste

Method
 

  1. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion (press out excess liquid), garlic, parsley, salt, cumin, paprika, allspice, coriander, black pepper, and olive oil.
  2. Make the Filling: Mix gently until just combined, but do not overmix, or the filling will become dense.
  3. Assemble the Arayes: Carefully open each pita half to create a pocket.
  4. Assemble the Arayes: Spread a thin, even layer of the meat mixture inside each pita, pressing it gently so it adheres to the bread without overfilling.
  5. Assemble the Arayes: Mix the red pepper paste and olive oil together. Then lightly brush the outside of each stuffed pita with the mixture.
  6. Cooking Instructions: Grill Method (Preferred): Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill arayes for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the pita is crisp and the meat is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165 F. Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F. Place arayes on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 F.
  7. Cooking Instructions: Serve with garlic sauce, pickled onions, and a side salad and enjoy.