Name: Arayes with Whipped Tahini Yogurt Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: For the Arayes:; 5 pita breads (6″ thin pocket-style), halved; Olive oil spray or olive oil for brushing; Spiced Meat Filling:; 500g (1 lb) lamb or beef mince; 1/2 brown onion, grated; 2 garlic cloves, finely grated; 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley (optional); 3 tsp ground coriander; 3 tsp ground cumin; 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 3/4 tsp ground allspice; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 1 1/4 tsp kosher salt; Whipped Tahini Yogurt Sauce:; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tbsp tahini; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, finely grated; 1/2 tsp kosher salt

Arayes are crispy, golden pita pockets filled with a spiced meat mixture and served with a creamy whipped tahini yogurt sauce. I love how the crunchy exterior gives way to flavorful, juicy meat inside, creating a satisfying bite every time. This Middle Eastern-inspired street food is simple, delicious, and great for both casual meals and entertaining.

Arayes with Whipped Tahini Yogurt Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy how this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. The combination of aromatic spices with juicy lamb or beef inside crisped-up pita is irresistible. The creamy, garlicky yogurt-tahini sauce adds the perfect cooling contrast to the warm spices. It’s quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pitas:

5 pita breads (6” thin pocket-style), halved
Olive oil spray or olive oil for brushing

Spiced Meat Filling:

500g (1 lb) lamb or beef mince
1/2 brown onion, grated
2 garlic cloves, finely grated
1 tbsp finely chopped parsley (optional)
3 tsp ground coriander
3 tsp ground cumin
1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
3/4 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1 1/4 tsp kosher salt

Whipped Tahini Yogurt Sauce:

1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, finely grated
1/2 tsp kosher salt

directions

Make the Filling
I grate the onion into a mixing bowl and add the ground meat, garlic, parsley, spices, and salt. I mix everything thoroughly with my hands until fully combined.

Portion and Shape
I divide the mixture into 10 equal portions (about 55-60g each) and flatten each into a thin semi-circle to match the shape of a pita half.

Stuff the Pitas
I carefully open each pita half. If they feel stiff, I microwave them for 15 seconds to soften. I stuff each with the meat, pressing it flat to fill the pocket evenly to the edges.

Cook the Arayes
I spray both sides of each stuffed pita with olive oil and pan fry them over medium-high heat for 2 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. I cook 2 to 3 at a time and transfer them to a wire rack in a low oven (50°C/120°F) to keep warm.

Make the Sauce
I combine all the sauce ingredients in a bowl, microwave for 15 seconds, and whisk until the sauce becomes light and creamy, like whipped yogurt.

Serve
I serve the Arayes piled on a platter with the whipped tahini yogurt sauce on the side. I sometimes cut them in halves for easier sharing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 10 pita halves. It takes about 15 minutes to prep, 15 minutes to cook, and is ready in a total of 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I use turkey mince for a lighter option or add chopped mint to the meat mix for a fresh flavor. I also bake the Arayes in the oven at 200°C (390°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once, if I want a hands-off method. I’ve even added a little feta to the filling for a cheesy twist.

storage/reheating

I store leftover Arayes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pan fry them again or use the oven to regain the crispness. The yogurt sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days and whisked again before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought tahini sauce instead?

Yes, I’ve used it in a pinch, but whipping it with yogurt makes it lighter and creamier.

Is it better to use lamb or beef?

Both work great. I like lamb for a richer flavor and beef for a milder one.

Can I grill Arayes instead of pan frying?

Absolutely. I grill them over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep and stuff the pitas in advance, then cook them fresh just before serving.

What should I serve with Arayes?

I usually pair them with a simple cucumber salad, tabbouleh, or even some hummus on the side.

Can I freeze Arayes?

Yes, I freeze them uncooked. When ready, I thaw and cook as usual.

How do I keep the pitas from tearing?

If they’re stiff, I microwave them briefly or steam slightly before stuffing.

What other sauces can I serve with this?

Sometimes I switch it up with tzatziki or harissa yogurt sauce for more variety.

Are these spicy?

Only mildly. I leave out the cayenne if I want them less spicy.

Can I use chicken mince?

Yes, ground chicken works well. I add a little olive oil to keep it moist.

Conclusion

Arayes with Whipped Tahini Yogurt Sauce is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that always hits the spot. I love how the spices and crispy pita come together with that cool, creamy sauce. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or party bite, this recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.