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Crispy Lebanese Arayes

Crispy Lebanese Arayes: Juicy Meat Pockets You’ll Love

Crispy Lebanese Arayes are delightful meat-stuffed pita pockets, perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 pockets
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 pound Ground Lamb or Lamb/Beef Mix opt for halal-friendly cuts
  • 1 medium Red Onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup Flat-Leaf Parsley chopped
  • 1 medium Tomato grated or diced
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Allspice adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil extra virgin recommended
For the Pita
  • 4 pieces Lebanese-Style Pita thinner pitas are better
Optional Additions
  • 1 cup Gruyere Cheese for cheese lovers
  • 1/2 cup Rao’s Sauce for added flavor

Equipment

  • grill
  • Mixing Bowl
  • non-stick skillet
  • spatula
  • Brush

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, grated tomato, chopped flat-leaf parsley, spices, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix gently until combined and let rest for 10 minutes.
  2. Cut each Lebanese-style pita in half to create pockets. Spoon a few tablespoons of the meat mixture into each half, pressing gently. Optionally, add Gruyere cheese or Rao’s sauce.
  3. Brush the outside of each filled pita pocket with olive oil to ensure a crispy exterior when grilling.
  4. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat and grill the stuffed pitas for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  5. Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm, cut into wedges for sharing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pocketCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

These Crispy Lebanese Arayes are best enjoyed fresh off the grill with your favorite dipping sauces or on their own.

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