Name: Crispy Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita – Arayes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 1/2 brown onion; 500g (1 lb) lamb or beef mince (ground meat); 2 garlic cloves, finely grated; 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley (optional); 3 tsp ground coriander; 3 tsp ground cumin; 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (substitute: plain paprika); 3/4 tsp ground allspice (substitute: mixed spice); 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 1/4 tsp cooking/kosher salt; 5 pita bread (thin pocket type, ~15cm/6″ diameter), cut in half (approximately 250g/8oz pack); Olive oil spray (or brush with olive oil); 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tbsp tahini; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, finely grated; 1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 143 reviews

If you are looking for a snack that is bursting with flavor, crispy, and absolutely satisfying, then the Crispy Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita – Arayes Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine tender, spiced lamb or beef kofta pressed lovingly inside warm pita bread and pan-fried until the outside is golden and crunchy. This Lebanese street food delights your taste buds with every bite, offering a perfect harmony of spices and textures that feels like a warm hug from the Middle East. Whether you’re craving a quick appetizer or a hearty main dish, Arayes has you covered with its simple ingredients and show-stopping taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five main parts arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a clear glass bowl filled with raw ground meat that is red with light fat running through it. To the top right of the bowl is a small white plate with five different spices placed separately: brown, orange, red, white salt, and beige powder. To the bottom right of the meat bowl is a bunch of fresh green parsley with thick leaves. To the top left of the bowl, there is half a round onion with light brown outer skin and white inside. Near the onion are two whole garlic cloves with pale skin. The colors are bright and natural, with good lighting and a clean look, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the unforgettable flavor and texture of this Crispy Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita – Arayes Recipe. From the fragrant spices that bring the meat to life to the creamy whipped tahini yogurt sauce that adds a refreshing finish, every component is essential.

Pita bread (5 thin pocket type): The perfect vessel that’s soft yet sturdy enough to hold the juicy spiced meat filling.
Olive oil spray: Helps achieve that irresistible crispy golden crust when pan-fried.
Brown onion (1/2, grated): Adds moisture and natural sweetness to the meat filling, keeping it juicy.
Lamb or beef mince (500g): The heart of the stuffing, providing rich, meaty flavor.
Garlic cloves (3 total): Finely grated for a subtle kick and delicious aroma throughout the dish.
Parsley (1 tbsp, finely chopped, optional): Fresh herbaceous note balancing the spices.
Ground coriander (3 tsp): Brings a warm, citrusy flavor that is classic in Middle Eastern cooking.
Ground cumin (3 tsp): Earthy and smoky, this spice is essential for that authentic taste.
Smoked paprika (1 1/2 tsp): Adds depth and a gentle smoky aroma; plain paprika works as a substitute.
Ground allspice (3/4 tsp): Offers a subtle sweetness and spice; mixed spice can be used alternatively.
Cayenne pepper (1/2 tsp): Injects a little heat to keep things exciting.
Cooking/kosher salt (1 1/4 tsp): Intensifies all the flavors beautifully.
Plain yogurt (1 cup): Base for a cooling whipped tahini yogurt sauce.
Tahini (2 tbsp): Sesame paste that enriches the sauce with nuttiness and creaminess.
Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Adds bright acidity to balance the richness.

How to Make Crispy Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita – Arayes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spiced Meat Filling

Start by grating half a brown onion directly into a bowl to capture all its juicy sweetness—this is what makes the meat so moist and tender. Next, add the minced lamb or beef along with the finely grated garlic, parsley, and an indulgent blend of spices: coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, allspice, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mixing it all with your hands ensures that every bit of meat is infused with fragrant seasoning. Once combined, divide the mixture into 10 equal portions and gently flatten each into a semi-circle slightly smaller than your pita halves.

Step 2: Stuff the Pitas

Gently open each pita half like a pocket and spoon in one flattened portion of the meat mixture. Close the pita and press lightly but firmly to spread the meat evenly to the edges. This careful pressing not only evenly distributes the filling but also helps the pita hold together during cooking. This step is critical to achieving those beautifully crisp and evenly cooked Arayes.

Step 3: Cook the Arayes to Crispy Perfection

Preheat your oven to 50C (120F) and set a rack on a tray to keep the Arayes warm once cooked. Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and spray both sides of each stuffed pita with olive oil. Place two or three pitas at a time in the pan, pressing down gently with a spatula. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until the pitas are golden and irresistibly crispy. Because the meat is spread thin inside, it cooks quickly, sealing in all that juicy deliciousness. Transfer cooked Arayes to the oven rack to maintain warmth as you finish the rest.

Step 4: Whip Up the Tahini Yogurt Sauce

For the perfect companion, combine plain yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, grated garlic, and salt in a heatproof bowl. Microwave for 15 seconds to slightly warm the mixture, then whisk vigorously until it turns silky and fluffy, resembling soft whipped cream. This sauce offers a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory, crispy pitas and is essential to any Crispy Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita – Arayes Recipe experience.

How to Serve Crispy Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita – Arayes Recipe

A white rectangular plate holds seven folded, golden-brown flatbreads with some darker spots, arranged slightly overlapping in a line. Bright green parsley sprigs are scattered on top and between the flatbreads. On one side of the plate, a small white bowl is filled with smooth white sauce, garnished with a sprig of parsley. Around the plate, there are four lemon wedges with a pale yellow color and soft texture. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Arayes serving, sprinkle fresh parsley or chopped mint over the platter. A drizzle of extra tahini or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds brightness that complements the spices wonderfully. Don’t forget a side of pickled vegetables or sumac onions if you want to add a tangy crunch to the mix.

Side Dishes

These crispy pitas pair beautifully with simple Middle Eastern side dishes like tabbouleh, fattoush salad, or a cooling cucumber and tomato salad. If you want to keep things casual and comforting, pair the Arayes with warm hummus or baba ganoush for dipping. The creamy textures counterbalance the crispy pitas flawlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a feast or party, arrange the Arayes on a large platter with dollops of whipped tahini sauce and colorful salads in small bowls around. Cut some into bite-size pieces for finger food presentation or stack them like sandwiches layered with fresh herbs and pickles for visual appeal. The vibrant spices and golden crust really pop against fresh veggies and bright sauces, making your table instantly inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Arayes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The meat and pita will keep well, though the crust might soften slightly over time. To enjoy later, simply reheat until crispy again for maximum flavor.

Freezing

Arayes freeze wonderfully. Place uncooked stuffed pita halves on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. When ready to cook, no need to thaw — just cook from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to your frying time.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Arayes and revive their signature crispiness is in a non-stick pan over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through and crisp on both sides. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pita soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of lamb or beef in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or even turkey can be used, but keep in mind they tend to be leaner, so adding a little olive oil or a bit of grated onion will help keep the filling moist and flavorful.

What if I don’t have tahini for the sauce?

If tahini is not available, you can substitute with a spoonful of peanut butter or simply serve the Arayes with plain yogurt mixed with lemon juice and garlic for a lighter sauce.

How spicy is this recipe?

The cayenne pepper adds a gentle warmth rather than intense heat, making this dish accessible for most palates. You can adjust or omit the cayenne if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can these be baked instead of pan-fried?

Yes, you can bake Arayes at 200C (400F) for about 12-15 minutes on a lined baking tray. However, pan-frying gives that extra golden crispiness that baking might not fully replicate.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Since pita bread contains gluten, this specific recipe is not gluten-free. However, you could try gluten-free flatbread or wraps as a creative alternative, though the texture will differ slightly.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Crispy Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pita – Arayes Recipe enough—it’s a wonderful way to bring the vibrant flavors of Lebanese street food right into your kitchen. The combination of juicy, spiced meat and crispy pita is irresistible and sure to please friends and family alike. So, gather the ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create your own crunchy, flavor-packed Arayes treat. Trust me, you’re going to love every bite!