What is the difference between arayes and regular pita sandwiches?

Arayes are pan-fried or grilled after stuffing, creating a crispy, sealed exterior that traps the hot meat filling inside. Regular pita is typically served cold or lightly toasted.

Can I use ground lamb instead of beef?

Yes, ground lamb is traditional and works equally well. Use the same amount and seasoning.

What is Lebanese 7 spice?

A warm spice blend typically containing cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, black pepper, coriander, and cumin. It's essential for authentic flavor.

How do I know when the arayes are done cooking?

Pan-fry until the pita is golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. The filling will be hot throughout.

Can arayes be made ahead?

Yes, stuff the pita up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Pan-fry just before serving for the best crispy texture.

Lebanese Stuffed Pita (Arayes)

Name: Lebanese Stuffed Pita (Arayes)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 39 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef ( or ground lamb); 1 tbsp Lebanese 7 spice; 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 medium yellow onion (quartered); 3 cloves garlic; 1/2 cup flat leaf parsley; 1/2 cup cilantro; 3 pita (I use wheat as pictured); Tahini Sauce; Tahini Yogurt Sauce; Shirazi Salad; French Fries

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Lebanese Stuffed Pita (Arayes) | CookOS

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef ( or ground lamb)
1 tbsp Lebanese 7 spice
1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)optional
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 medium yellow onion (quartered)
3 cloves garlic
1/2 cup flat leaf parsley
1/2 cup cilantro
3 pita (I use wheat as pictured)
Tahini Sauce
Tahini Yogurt Sauce
Shirazi Salad
French Fries

14 Ingredients

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Instructions

1
Place the ground beef (and or lamb), Lebanese 7 spice, salt, red pepper flakes and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Set aside.
2
In a food processor place the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro and pulse until very finely chopped (NOT pureed), scraping down sides of bowl.
3
Transfer mixture to bowl with the ground meat and mix by hands until evenly combined.
4
Cut the pitas into halves or quarters and open to form pockets. Stuff the divided beef mixture between the two thin layers of each pita. Gently press with your fingers to spread the filling inside.
5
Add some oil to a skillet over medium heat. Place the stuffed pitas in the skillet meat side down to sear meat, 1-2 minutes. Next toast each side of the pita until crisp.
6
Transfer skillet to a 350°F oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until meat registers 155°F.
7
Serve with optional french fries, tahini yogurt sauce, shirazi salad.
8
Cut the pitas into halves or quarters and open to form pockets. Stuff the divided beef mixture between the two thin layers of each pita. Gently press with your fingers to spread the filling inside.
9
Stovetop: Place a grill pan over medium heat. Brush the pan with the olive oil. Working in batches, place the stuffed pitas on the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the beef is fully cooked and the pita is crispy with grill marks. Place on wire rack lined tray so they don't steam and lose crispiness.
10
Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush olive oil on both sides of the stuffed pitas. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
11
Serve with optional french fries, tahini yogurt sauce, shirazi salad.