Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tsp salt

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp coriander

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

1/4 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp dried mint

1/8 tsp ground cloves

Black pepper, to taste

4 pita breads (about 6 inch diameter)

Optional dip: lazy tzatziki

Serve with lemon wedges

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled feta, minced garlic, olive oil, all the spices, and chopped parsley. Mix well using your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 2: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a thin half-moon patty. Slice each pita bread in half and carefully fill each pocket with one meat patty, spreading it evenly inside.

Step 3: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small drizzle of olive oil. Place the stuffed pitas in the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, pressing gently to ensure even cooking. Don’t forget to sear the open meat side well. Maintain medium to medium-low heat to prevent burning while cooking through.

Step 4: Remove from the skillet once the meat is cooked through and the pitas are crispy and golden. Serve immediately with optional lazy tzatziki and lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture before stuffing the pitas.

Swap ground beef for ground lamb for a traditional twist.

To make it vegetarian, use a spiced mixture of cooked lentils and crumbled feta instead of meat.

Toast the pitas slightly before stuffing for an even crispier pocket.

Serve with a side of fresh salad or pickles to balance the richness.

FAQs

Can I prepare arayes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and stuff the pitas in advance. Keep them wrapped and refrigerated, then cook just before serving for the best texture and flavor.