Crispy & Juicy Lebanese Arayes: The Ultimate Beef Pita Classic Recipe
Discover the authentic flavors of Lebanese cuisine with these Crispy & Juicy Lebanese Arayes, a classic beef pita recipe. Stuffed with a perfectly seasoned ground beef mixture flavored with garlic, parsley, cumin, and cinnamon, and then grilled, skillet-cooked, or baked to golden perfection. These warm, savory pita pockets offer a delightful combination of crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful filling, making them an irresistible snack or meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 pita halves (serves 2-4) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 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)
Optional Add-ins
- ¼ tsp chili flakes for heat
- 1 tbsp tahini for extra flavor
- Chopped pine nuts for crunch
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until fully combined to create a well-seasoned meat mixture.
- Stuff the pita: Cut each pita bread in half to form four pockets. Gently open each pocket and add 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture inside, flattening it evenly to ensure the filling is well-distributed.
- Brush and flatten: Lightly brush both sides of the stuffed pita pockets with olive oil. Press them gently to help the filling spread evenly and to season the outer surface for a crispy texture.
- Cook: Choose your cooking method: Grill the arayes over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through; or use a dry nonstick skillet over medium heat, flipping when the pita is golden and crisp; or bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12 minutes, flipping halfway to achieve an even golden crust.
- Serve hot: Let the arayes rest briefly after cooking, then slice and serve immediately with your favorite dips or salads for a delicious meal or appetizer.
Notes
- Use ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for optimum juiciness and flavor.
- Grated onion adds moisture and tenderness to the filling.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding optional chili flakes if you prefer heat.
- Brushing olive oil helps achieve a crisp and golden crust whether grilling, pan-frying, or baking.
- If baking, place the arayes on a baking tray and flip halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve with traditional Lebanese dips like tahini, garlic sauce, or yogurt-based tzatziki for an authentic experience.
Keywords: Lebanese Arayes, Beef Pita, Middle Eastern Sandwich, Grilled Pita, Crispy Beef Pockets, Lebanese Street Food, Arayes Recipe
