Grilled Arayes

This recipe for Grilled Arayes comes from our friend Ryan Cooper of BBQ Tourist. These meat stuffed pitas are a popular street food in the Middle East and are tasty and easy to prepare. Arayes are a great alternative to hamburgers and are the perfect dish for the family during busy weeknights.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 lb Raikes Ground Beef
• 1 small yellow onion, minced
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• ½ cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp all spice
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp coriander
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp cloves
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil, or Olive Oil Spray
• 2-3 pocket pitas, cut in half

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Chop parsley and mince onion and garlic.

2. Add beef, parsley, onion, garlic, all spice, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, paprika, salt, and pepper to a mixing bowl. Mix by hand until everything is well combined.

3. Slice pocket pitas in half. Spoon beef mixture into the pitas, ensuring not to overstuff.

4. Brush both sides of each pita pocket with olive oil (or spray with olive oil spray)

5. Heat grill up to 400 degrees F. Add stuffed pitas to the grill. Sear meat side down on the grill, then grill each side until meat is cooked through and pita is crispy and golden brown. These cook quickly, so watch closely to prevent overcooking.

6. Remove and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Dip these Grilled Arayes in tahini sauce, ketchup, or your favorite sauce.