Best Arayes Kafta

Best Arayes Kafta: A Flavorful Middle Eastern Delight

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Introduction

Arayes Kafta is a delicious Middle Eastern dish featuring seasoned ground beef stuffed into pita bread, then grilled or baked to perfection. With its savory spices and optional cheesy filling, it’s a perfect addition to any meal or a fantastic option for a flavorful appetizer. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to choose between stove-top grilling or oven-baking methods.

Ingredients

• 1 medium white onion, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste or pomegranate molasses
• 1 teaspoon EACH allspice, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, salt
• 4 pita breads
• ½ cup shredded cheese of choice (optional)
• Olive oil for brushing
• Shawarma sauce (for serving)
• Fresh red onions and lemon slices (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Onion Mixture:
   • In a small food processor, pulse the chopped onion, garlic, and parsley until finely minced. This creates a flavorful base for the beef mixture.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the onion mixture with the ground beef, tomato paste (or pomegranate molasses), and spices (allspice, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, salt). Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Stuff the Pitas:
   • Cut the pita breads in half or into quarters and gently open them up to form pockets. Stuff each pita pocket with about ¼ cup of the beef mixture, pressing to evenly distribute it. Optionally, add a layer of shredded cheese for extra flavor.
4. Cooking Methods:

   Stove-top Method:

   • Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the stuffed pitas with olive oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

   Oven Method:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the pitas with olive oil and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for the same duration, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the Arayes Kafta warm with shawarma sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh red onions and lemon slices for an added burst of flavor.

Tips

• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference or add a touch of chili powder for extra heat.
• Cheesy Delight: Adding cheese is optional but highly recommended for a richer taste and gooey texture.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before stuffing the pitas.

Conclusion

Arayes Kafta is a delightful Middle Eastern dish that’s perfect for both casual meals and special gatherings. Its combination of juicy, spiced beef and crispy pita makes for a satisfying and delicious experience. Whether you choose to grill or bake, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy with a side of shawarma sauce and your favorite garnishes for a complete and flavorful meal!

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Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste and enjoy this delicious treat with your loved ones!

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