Ground Meat with Pita Bread

Macedonian Ground Pork Pita Bread Recipe with Yogurt Mint Sauce

Region / culture: Macedonia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Ground Meat with Pita Bread is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines flavorful ground lamb with refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce, all wrapped in a warm pita bread. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Middle Eastern flavors, where ground meat is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of lamb, oregano, and cumin creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile that is complemented by the cool and creamy cucumber yogurt sauce.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of minced onion
1 clove of garlic, minced
0.5 lb (227 g) of ground meat (ground pork or ground lamb)
2 tbsp of lemon juice
0.5 tsp of dried oregano
0.5 tsp of ground cumin
0.5 cup of diced cucumber
0.25 cup of non-fat yogurt
1 tbsp of fresh mint, chopped
2 pitas
0.5 cup of shredded lettuce
0.5 cup of diced tomato
oil for cooking

How to prepare

In a skillet, add the onion, garlic, and some oil. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until they become soft.
Transfer the cooked onion and garlic to a mixing bowl. Add lamb, lemon juice, oregano, and cumin. Mix thoroughly.
Shape the mixture into 2 patties.
Place the patties on a broiler rack and broil for 3 to 5 minutes on each side. Turn them once during cooking, until they reach the desired doneness.
In a small bowl, combine cucumber, yogurt, and mint. Mix well.
Cut around the edge of each pita bread and open it to form a pocket.
Fill each pita with half of the lettuce, tomato, 1 lamb patty, and half of the yogurt mixture.

Variations

Substitute ground beef or chicken for the lamb for a different flavor profile.
Add diced bell peppers or olives to the lamb mixture for added texture and flavor.
Top the pita sandwiches with feta cheese or tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onion and garlic over low heat to prevent them from burning.

- When shaping the lamb patties, make sure they are evenly sized for even cooking.

- Broil the patties until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.

- Make sure to let the patties rest for a few minutes before assembling the pita sandwiches to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Ground Meat with Pita Bread with a side of tabbouleh salad or hummus for a complete Middle Eastern meal.

Cooking Techniques

Broiling the lamb patties ensures that they cook quickly and evenly, while also allowing the flavors to develop and caramelize.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have ground lamb, you can use ground beef or chicken as a substitute. Greek yogurt can be used instead of non-fat yogurt for a creamier texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the lamb mixture and yogurt sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the pita sandwiches.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Ground Meat with Pita Bread on a platter with a garnish of fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of paprika for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing mint tea for a complete dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover lamb patties and yogurt sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply microwave the patties until heated through and assemble the pita sandwiches as directed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 24g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 20g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Calcium: 8% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (yogurt)

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and fats, making it a balanced meal option.

Summary

Ground Meat with Pita Bread is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. With the combination of aromatic spices, tender lamb patties, and creamy yogurt sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Sarah who had just returned from a trip to Greece. She had brought back a cookbook filled with authentic Greek recipes, and as soon as I saw the picture of Ground Meat with Pita Bread, I knew I had to learn how to make it.

Sarah was kind enough to teach me the recipe, and as we cooked together in her cozy kitchen, she shared the story of how she had learned to make it herself. She had met a local Greek chef during her trip who had invited her into his kitchen to watch him cook. She had watched in awe as he expertly seasoned the ground meat with aromatic spices, cooked it to perfection, and then served it on warm, fluffy pita bread.

As I listened to Sarah's story, I could almost taste the delicious flavors of the dish. I was determined to learn how to make it myself so that I could share it with my own family and friends. Sarah patiently guided me through each step of the recipe, from browning the meat to seasoning it with a blend of cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own home.

After the meat was cooked, Sarah showed me how to assemble the dish. She spread a generous spoonful of creamy tzatziki sauce on each warm pita bread, then topped it with the seasoned ground meat and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The colors and textures of the dish were a feast for the eyes, and I couldn't wait to dig in and taste it for myself.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to the bustling streets of Athens, where the scent of spices and grilled meats filled the air. The flavors of the dish were bold and complex, with the perfect balance of savory and tangy notes. I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made Ground Meat with Pita Bread countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. I have experimented with different types of meat, from lamb to chicken to turkey, and have played around with the seasonings to create new flavor combinations. Each time I make the dish, I am reminded of the day I first learned how to make it from Sarah, and of the joy that cooking and sharing food with loved ones brings me.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of spices and herbs, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that has brought so much joy and connection into my life. The simple act of sharing a meal with others has the power to create lasting memories and bring people together in a way that is truly special. And for that, I am forever thankful.