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Crispy Juicy Lebanese Arayes

Crispy Juicy Lebanese Arayes: The Perfect Grilled Delight

Crispy Juicy Lebanese Arayes are delightful pita pockets filled with spiced lamb and pine nuts, perfect for impressing guests or busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 1 minute
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 8 pockets
Course: APPETIZERS
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 500 g ground lamb or beef or ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped adds moisture and sweetness
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced enhances flavor depth
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped provides freshness
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin adds warmth and earthiness
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander contributes citrusy notes
  • 1 teaspoon allspice introduces a warm spice profile
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper adds mild heat
  • 1 teaspoon salt essential for flavor enhancement
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted adds buttery crunch
For the Pitas
  • 8 pieces pita breads, cut into halves choose thicker varieties
  • 1/4 cup olive oil, for brushing promotes crispiness
For Serving
  • lemon wedges enhances flavors
  • tahini sauce offers a creamy, nutty accompaniment

Equipment

  • grill
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, mix the ground lamb or beef with the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and parsley. Stir until well blended.
  2. Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, allspice, black pepper, and salt. Mix until evenly distributed.
  3. Gently incorporate the toasted pine nuts into the meat mixture.
  4. Take one half of a pita bread and scoop in about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture. Press gently.
  5. Continue filling the remaining pita halves with the meat mixture.
  6. Heat your grill or skillet to medium heat and lightly oil the surface.
  7. Brush both sides of each filled pita with olive oil.
  8. Grill or cook each filled pita for 4-5 minutes per side, until crispy and golden.
  9. Remove the arayes from the heat and let them rest for about a minute. Slice each pocket in half.
  10. Serve warm with lemon wedges and a drizzle of tahini sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pocketCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 17gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Optional: Serve with a side of fattoush or tabbouleh salad for a delightful meal.

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