Description
At its core, Arayes are a grilled or pan-fried pita bread stuffed with a seasoned ground meat mixture. The name “Arayes” (pronounced ah-rye-ess) is the plural of “Aroos,” which means “bride” in Arabic. While the exact reason for this poetic name is debated, some say it’s because the dish is so beloved and beautiful, it’s considered a “bride” on the table. The magic of Arayes lies in the contrast: the satisfying crunch of the toasted bread against the soft, flavorful meat inside.
Ingredients
For the Kofta Filling:
- 500g ground lamb or beef (or a mix)
- 1 small onion, finely grated or pulsed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Baharat (optional but authentic)
- ½ tsp cayenne (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses (optional but adds depth)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4–5 Lebanese pita breads (thin, with pockets)
- Olive oil or spray for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix all kofta ingredients until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky and aromatic.
- Stuff the pitas: Cut each pita in half to form pockets. Gently open and spread a thin layer of meat mixture inside each half—don’t overstuff, as the meat cooks inside the bread.
- Cook the Arayes:
- Pan-fry: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Brush or spray both sides of the stuffed pita with olive oil. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy, and meat is cooked through.
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill each side for 3–4 minutes.
- Oven: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve hot: Slice into wedges and serve with tahini yogurt, garlic toum, or pickled onions.
Notes
Serve these crispy, juicy Arayes with a side of cooling tzatziki, garlic sauce, or tahini dip. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh fattoush or tabbouleh salad for a complete Middle Eastern feast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Appetizer
- Method: Grilling / Pan-Frying / Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern (Lebanese)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pita halves
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Lebanese meat-stuffed pita, Crispy Arayes, Meat-stuffed pita pockets