Lebanese Arayes are a delightful treat that perfectly combines crispy, juicy beef-stuffed pitas delivering bold Middle Eastern flavors. This dish is not only a staple in Lebanese cuisine but also a favorite for gatherings and street food lovers alike. Each bite is a fusion of seasoned ground beef, fresh herbs, and spices, all embraced by warm, toasted pita. In this article, I’ll guide you through the authentic preparation of Lebanese Arayes, ensuring you enjoy this traditional dish in the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love This Lebanese Arayes

There are many reasons to adore Lebanese Arayes. First, they’re incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of spices like cumin and cinnamon. Second, they offer a perfect balance of textures with the crispy exterior of the pita and the juicy, spiced beef filling. Third, they are versatile and can be served as appetizers or main dishes. Additionally, Lebanese Arayes are easy to prepare, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings. You can customize them with your favorite dips, such as tahini sauce or yogurt. Lastly, cooking Lebanese Arayes at home allows you to embrace the authentic Lebanese flavors right in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Lebanese Arayes

Gather these items:

• ½ lb (225g) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
• ½ small onion, grated
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ cup chopped parsley
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 (6-inch) pita breads, halved to form 4 pockets
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
• ¼ tsp chili flakes for heat
• 1 tbsp tahini for extra flavor
• Chopped pine nuts for crunch

How to Make Lebanese Arayes Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: In a bowl, mix ground beef, grated onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
2. Step 2: Cut each pita in half and gently open the pocket. Add 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture and flatten evenly.
3. Step 3: Lightly brush both sides with olive oil and press gently to distribute filling evenly.
4. Step 4: Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat and cook 4–5 minutes per side.
5. Step 5: Skillet: Use a dry nonstick pan over medium heat, flipping when golden.
6. Step 6: Bake: Place on a tray and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12 minutes, flipping halfway.
7. Step 7: Rest briefly, then slice and serve with dips or salads.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lebanese Arayes

Keep these in mind:

• Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
• Ensure your pita is fresh to achieve the perfect crispiness.
• You can customize the spice level by adjusting the chili flakes.
• Consider marinating the beef mixture for a few hours for deeper flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Lebanese Arayes

Here are some fantastic serving suggestions:

• Serve with a side of tahini sauce for a creamy dip.
• Pair with a fresh salad, like tabbouleh, to balance the richness.
• Enjoy alongside a platter of hummus for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat Lebanese Arayes

To store leftover Lebanese Arayes, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or a skillet until warmed through for the best texture. This method is perfect for meal prep and enjoying this delicious dish throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lebanese Arayes

What’s the secret to perfect Lebanese Arayes?

The secret lies in the quality of the ingredients and not overstuffing the pita. Ensure the meat mixture is well-seasoned, and grill until golden for that crispy texture.

Can I make Lebanese Arayes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef filling and store it separately. Just assemble and cook the Arayes when you’re ready to serve for fresh, crispy results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lebanese Arayes?

Avoid using too much filling, as it can tear the pita. Also, ensure your grill or pan is hot enough for proper browning.

Variations of Lebanese Arayes You Can Try

There are many tasty variations of Lebanese Arayes to explore:

• Substitute ground lamb for a richer flavor.
• Add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra tang.
• Experiment with different spices like za’atar or paprika for unique twists.

Crispy Lebanese Arayes: 7 Secrets to Perfect Pita

Print Recipe

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Crispy, juicy beef-stuffed pitas that deliver bold Middle Eastern flavors.

• Author: Robert
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling, Skillet, Baking
• Cuisine: Lebanese
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ½ lb (225g) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
• ½ small onion, grated
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ cup chopped parsley
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 (6-inch) pita breads, halved to form 4 pockets
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
• ¼ tsp chili flakes for heat
• 1 tbsp tahini for extra flavor
• Chopped pine nuts for crunch

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, grated onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
2. Cut each pita in half and gently open the pocket. Add 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture and flatten evenly.
3. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil and press gently to distribute filling evenly.
4. Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat and cook 4–5 minutes per side.
5. Skillet: Use a dry nonstick pan over medium heat, flipping when golden.
6. Bake: Place on a tray and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12 minutes, flipping halfway.
7. Rest briefly, then slice and serve with dips or salads.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 pita
• Calories: 280 calories
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 17g
• Cholesterol: 60mg