Arayes

Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor—these Middle Eastern stuffed pitas are perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying!

Lamb Arayes with Tahini Yogurt Sauce

Ingredients

For the spiced meat filling:

• 1 shallot, minced

• 1 lb ground lamb or beef

• 4 garlic cloves, finely grated

• 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley

• 2 tbsp fresh mint, minced

• 1 tbsp ground coriander

• 1 tbsp ground cumin

• 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 3/4 tsp ground allspice

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

For the arayes:

• 4-5 thin pocket-style pita breads (about 15 cm/6” in diameter), cut in half

• Olive oil spray (or brush with olive oil)

For the whipped tahini yogurt sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• 2 tbsp tahini (or Chinese sesame paste)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 garlic clove, finely grated

• kosher salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Make the Spiced Meat Filling

In a bowl, combine the ground lamb (or beef) with the minced shallot, grated garlic, parsley, mint, and all the spices. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until fully incorporated.

2. Stuff the Pitas

• Take each pita half and gently open the pocket.

• Fill with about 2-3 tbsp of the meat mixture, spreading it evenly inside without overstuffing. Flatten slightly for even cooking.

3. Cook the Arayes

• Grill method: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Brush both sides of the pita with olive oil and grill for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp, with the meat fully cooked.

• Pan-fry method: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brush pitas with oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula.

• Oven method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place arayes on a wire rack over a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Make the Tahini Yogurt Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt until smooth and creamy.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

Cut the arayes into quarters if desired and serve hot with the whipped tahini yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.