Introduction
Arayes is a delightful Middle Eastern dish featuring spiced meat stuffed in pita bread, delivering a perfect combination of crispy texture and rich flavors. This recipe takes you through the process of creating delicious Arayes, accompanied by a creamy whipped tahini yogurt sauce that enhances the overall experience. Whether you’re planning a gathering or just looking to enjoy a special meal, this dish is sure to impress!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the spiced meat filling:
– 500 g (1 lb) ground lamb or beef
– 1/2 brown onion, grated
– 2 cloves garlic, finely grated
– 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley (optional)
– 3 tsp ground coriander
– 3 tsp ground cumin
– 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (or plain paprika)
– 3/4 tsp ground allspice
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 1/4 tsp salt
For the pita:
– 5 thin pocket-style pita breads (~15 cm/6″ 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
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, finely grated
– 1/2 tsp salt
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 10 Arayes
To prepare the Arayes, start with the spiced meat filling by mixing all the ingredients until well combined. Form the meat mixture into portions, and stuff them into the pita halves, ensuring an even spread. Cook the stuffed pitas in a frying pan until golden and crispy, then make your whipped tahini yogurt sauce for dipping. Serve hot for a savory treat that is truly satisfying!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the spiced meat filling:
In a bowl, combine the grated onion (including juices), ground meat, garlic, parsley (if using), ground coriander, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground allspice, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined.
Assemble the Arayes:
Divide the meat mixture into 10 equal portions (approximately 55-60g or 1/4 cup each). Flatten each portion into a semi-circle shape slightly smaller than the pita half. Gently open each pita half and place the meat filling inside, spreading it evenly to the edges. Press down lightly to ensure the filling is evenly distributed.
Cook the Arayes:
Preheat your oven to 50°C (120°F) and place a rack on a tray to keep cooked Arayes warm. Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Lightly spray or brush both sides of the stuffed pita halves with olive oil. Place the stuffed pitas in the pan and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, pressing down lightly with a spatula, until golden and crispy. The meat filling is thin, so it cooks quickly. Transfer the cooked Arayes to the rack in the oven to keep warm while you cook the remaining batches.
Prepare the whipped tahini yogurt sauce:
In a bowl, combine the plain yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, finely grated garlic, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
Serve:
Serve the hot, crispy Arayes with the whipped tahini yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
Ingredient Variations:
You can use ground chicken or turkey instead of lamb or beef for a lighter option.
Spice Adjustments:
Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
Storage:
Leftover Arayes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a frying pan before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Arayes pair well with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes, or you can serve them alongside a salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Preparing the spiced meat filling
Incorporate the grated onion and garlic with the ground meat. Mixing with your hands ensures that the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Assembling the Arayes
Divide the meat mixture evenly and shape each portion into semi-circles. Carefully open the pita halves and fill them with the meat, making sure to spread it to the edges for even cooking.
Cooking the Arayes
Preheat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and ensure your pitas are lightly coated in olive oil for a crispy texture. Cook on each side until golden brown, pressing down gently to ensure even cooking.
Making the whipped tahini yogurt sauce
Combine yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt in a bowl. Mixing until smooth is key to achieving a creamy sauce that complements the Arayes well.
Serving the Arayes
Serve the crispy Arayes hot with the tahini yogurt sauce on the side for dipping, allowing each person to customize their flavor experience.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
Yes, you can use ground chicken or turkey as a substitute for lamb or beef if you prefer.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the filling?
You can modify the amount of cayenne pepper according to your taste. If you want it milder, you can reduce or omit it entirely.
Can I prepare the meat filling in advance?
Absolutely! The meat filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling the Arayes.
What if I don’t have tahini for the sauce?
If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute it with peanut butter or simply serve the yogurt with lemon juice and garlic.
How do I store leftover Arayes?
Store leftover Arayes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or oven to retain crispiness before serving.
Conclusion
The spiced meat-filled Arayes, when paired with the creamy whipped tahini yogurt sauce, create a delicious and satisfying dish. The combination of aromatic spices and tender meat encased in crispy pita offers a delightful texture and flavor that will please any palate. These Arayes are perfect for gatherings and can be enjoyed as a main dish or an appetizer.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use a similar spiced meat filling to stuff bell peppers, topped with cheese and baked until tender.
Spiced Meat Tacos
Fill soft tortillas with the spiced meat mixture, topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime.
Lamb Kofta Skewers
Shape the spiced meat mixture into small sausages and grill on skewers for a delicious kofta option, served with pita and sauce.
Chickpea and Meat Bowl
Serve the spiced meat alongside roasted chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a dollop of tahini yogurt sauce on a bed of rice.
Meat and Veggie Quesadillas
Combine the spiced meat with shredded cheese and veggies, then grill between tortillas for a tasty quesadilla.
Grilled Vegetable and Meat Wrap
Add grilled vegetables to the spiced meat filling and wrap in pita for a fresh and nutritious meal.
