Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a culinary journey to the heart of Lebanon! These Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pitas are not just a meal; they are an experience filled with rich flavors and aromatic spices that will transport you straight to a bustling Middle Eastern market. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy pita pocket bursting with savory ground beef, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of creamy tahini sauce—it's a flavor explosion you won't want to miss! Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress. Dive into our article to discover the secrets of crafting these delicious pitas and bring a taste of Lebanon to your kitchen!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Lebanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 pitas
- 1 cup chopped parsley
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup tahini sauce
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of ground beef, 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 tsp of ground cumin, 1 tsp of ground cinnamon, salt and pepper to taste, 4 pitas, 1 cup of chopped parsley, 1 diced tomato, and 1/2 cup of tahini sauce.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, approximately 7-10 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked, stir in the ground cumin, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the chopped parsley and diced tomato. This will add freshness and a nice texture to the filling.
- While the meat mixture cools slightly, prepare the pitas. If they are not already warm, you can heat them in a dry skillet over low heat for a minute on each side, or wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the pitas are warm, carefully cut them in half to create pockets. Be gentle to avoid tearing.
- Stuff each pita pocket generously with the meat mixture, ensuring an even distribution among all four pitas.
- Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of tahini sauce into each stuffed pita, or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Serve the Lebanese meat stuffed pitas warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Meat: For a more flavorful filling, consider using a mix of ground beef and lamb. This combination adds depth to the dish and enhances the traditional taste.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the meat mixture.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh parsley and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Fresh herbs can really elevate the dish and add a vibrant touch.
- Pita Preparation: If you're using store-bought pitas, warm them up before stuffing to enhance their softness and make them easier to handle. A quick heat in a skillet or oven works wonders.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meat filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up before stuffing the pitas for a quick weeknight meal.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of tabbouleh or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stuffed pitas.
- Tahini Sauce Variations: Experiment with your tahini sauce by adding lemon juice, garlic, or even a touch of honey for a unique twist that complements the meat beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 80mg
