Description
Cheesy Ground Beef and Mushroom Pita Wrap with Zaatar Roasted Sauce
Looking for a quick, flavorful recipe? These pita wraps combine spiced ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy zaatar sauce with cheesy goodness for a meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
450g ground beef
1 cup mushrooms
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp zaatar
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp tahini
4 pita breads
1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions:
Cook Beef and Mushrooms: Sauté with spices until tender.
Make Sauce: Whisk yogurt, tahini, zaatar, and lemon juice.
Assemble Pita: Spread sauce, add beef, mushrooms, and cheese.
#QuickAndCheesyWraps
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect wrap. First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once it begins to brown, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for 7-10 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture. Season generously with salt, pepper, and half of the zaatar spice.
While the meat cooks, prepare the zaatar roasted sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, tahini, remaining zaatar, and the juice of half a lemon. Whisk vigorously until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well-incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or more lemon juice as desired.
To assemble, lightly warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or microwave for 20 seconds to make them pliable. Spread a generous layer of the zaatar sauce down the center of each pita. Top with the cooked beef and mushroom mixture, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Fold the bottom of the pita up, then fold the sides over to create a secure wrap.
Serving Suggestions
These wraps are a complete meal on their own, but you can elevate your plate with simple sides. Serve with a crisp side salad of chopped cucumber, tomato, and red onion with a lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, add a bowl of roasted potato wedges or crispy sweet potato fries. A side of tangy pickled vegetables or olives also complements the rich, savory flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
In summary: Brown ground beef with mushrooms and zaatar. Create a creamy sauce by whisking yogurt, tahini, zaatar, and lemon juice. Warm pita breads, spread with sauce, fill with the beef mixture and cheese, then fold into a wrap. Serve immediately while warm and melty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely. Ground lamb, turkey, or chicken are excellent substitutes for beef and will work with the same cooking method and spice profile.
My sauce is too thick. How can I thin it? Simply whisk in a teaspoon of water or milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency. A little extra lemon juice will also thin it while adding brightness.
Can I make the components ahead of time? Yes. Cook the beef and mushroom filling and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. The sauce can be made 1-2 days ahead. Assemble the wraps just before serving to prevent the pita from becoming soggy.
What can I use if I don’t have zaatar? Create a quick blend using dried thyme, toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and a pinch of salt. While not identical, it will provide a similar herby, tangy flavor.
How do I keep the wrap from falling apart? Ensure you don’t overfill it. Using the fold-up-bottom, fold-in-sides technique is key. You can also briefly grill the assembled wrap in a panini press or skillet to seal the edges.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best result: Do not skip warming the pita, as cold pita is prone to tearing. Do not add the cheese to the hot skillet with the meat; the residual heat from the filling will melt it perfectly inside the wrap. Do not over-sauce the pita, as it will make the bread soggy and difficult to handle. Finally, ensure you cook the mushrooms until their liquid has evaporated to prevent a watery filling.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Mushroom Pita Wrap is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. The combination of savory spiced meat, earthy mushrooms, and the uniquely tangy zaatar sauce offers a flavor adventure in every bite. Quick to prepare yet impressive in taste, it’s a versatile recipe perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, satisfying wrap that is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.