Savor the bold, mouthwatering flavors of this Spicy Filling for Pita Bread, a perfect fusion of juicy ground beef or chicken and aromatic spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. This easy-to-make recipe is a quick 35-minute powerhouse, featuring a medley of diced red bell peppers, fresh parsley, and a tangy cucumber-yogurt sauce that beautifully balances the heat. Stuffed into warm, fluffy pita bread alongside crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes, this versatile dish is ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Elevate your pita game with this spicy, flavor-packed creation thatβs as satisfying as it is simple.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and sautΓ© for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant.
Add the ground beef or chicken to the skillet. Cook and break up with a spoon until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Mix in the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes, until slightly softened.
Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley. Set the spicy meat mixture aside.
In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, and finely diced cucumber. Mix well to create a tangy cucumber sauce.
Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until pliable.
Stuff each pita bread pocket with a layer of shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a generous spoonful of the spicy meat mixture.
Drizzle the cucumber yogurt sauce over the filling before serving.
Serve the stuffed pitas warm and enjoy the spicy, flavorful meal.
Calories |
2394 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 136.5 g | 175% | |
| Saturated Fat | 46.2 g | 231% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 406 mg | 135% | |
| Sodium | 3842 mg | 167% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 184.5 g | 67% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 27.4 g | 98% | |
| Total Sugars | 38.0 g | ||
| Protein | 122.8 g | 246% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 487 mg | 37% | |
| Iron | 23.2 mg | 129% | |
| Potassium | 3937 mg | 84% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.