Description
Mediterranean Ground Beef Pita Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef Filling:
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad:
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup tomato, diced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Pinch of salt
For Assembly:
4 pita breads (toasted or warm)
1 cup lettuce leaves, shredded
Instructions
Prepare the Beef Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Mix in cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Salad:
In a bowl, combine diced cucumber, tomato, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss until evenly coated.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Lay a warm pita bread flat and layer with shredded lettuce.
Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture onto the lettuce.
Top with the fresh cucumber-tomato salad.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately while warm. Optionally, pair with tzatziki or hummus on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. Begin by prepping all your ingredients: finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the cucumber and tomato. This “mise en place” ensures a smooth cooking process. For the beef, use a large skillet and preheat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, using a wooden spoon to break it into small, even crumbles as it browns. Once no pink remains, drain any excess fat if desired. Then, add the cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices and let the flavors meld. While the beef cooks, prepare the salad by gently tossing all ingredients in a bowl. Lightly toast your pitas in a dry pan or oven for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile sandwich pairs wonderfully with a variety of Mediterranean sides. Serve with a generous dollop of cool tzatziki sauce or creamy hummus. For a complete meal, add a side of lemon-herb rice, crispy baked falafel, or a simple Greek salad. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the assembled sandwich adds a bright, finishing touch. These also make excellent packed lunches if you keep the components separate and assemble just before eating to prevent the pita from getting soggy.
How-to Summary
In summary: Sauté onion and garlic, then brown ground beef with Mediterranean spices. Mix a quick cucumber-tomato salad. Layer lettuce, warm spiced beef, and salad inside a warm pita bread. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground lamb, turkey, or chicken are excellent substitutes and will still deliver great flavor with the same spice blend.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Simply use certified gluten-free pita bread or serve the filling over a bed of greens as a hearty salad bowl.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store the beef filling, salad, and pita separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef gently before assembling.
Can I prepare the beef filling ahead of time? Absolutely. The spiced beef filling tastes even better the next day as the flavors intensify. Reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water.
My pita bread keeps tearing. Any tips? Ensure your pitas are warm and pliable. You can also create a “pocket” by carefully slicing around the edge, or simply fold it like a taco if it’s a flatbread style.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Cook the beef in a large enough pan so it browns properly instead of steaming.
- Underseasoning the Beef: Don’t be shy with the spices and salt; they are key to the Mediterranean flavor profile.
- Using Cold Pita: A cold pita is more likely to crack. Always warm it slightly for easy folding.
- Adding the Salad Too Early: Assemble just before serving to keep the pita bread from becoming soggy.
- Skipping the Fat Drain: If your ground beef is high in fat, draining the excess after browning prevents a greasy filling.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Ground Beef Pita Sandwich is a perfect fusion of savory, spiced meat and fresh, crisp vegetables, all wrapped in soft bread. It’s a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table in under 30 minutes. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!