Savory Meatball Pitas: The Perfect Handheld Meal

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of ground beef
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon of oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 4 pita breads
  • 1 cup of Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Mix the ingredients together until they're well combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook them for about 10 minutes, or until they're browned on all sides and cooked through.
  6. While the meatballs are cooking, warm the pita breads in the oven or toaster.
  7. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and lemon juice to make a sauce.
  8. When the meatballs are done cooking, remove them from the skillet and set them aside to cool slightly.
  9. Assemble the pitas by spreading a layer of the Greek yogurt sauce on each pita, then adding a layer of meatballs.
  10. Top the meatballs with the diced cucumber and tomatoes.
  11. Roll up the pita breads and serve them warm.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use ground chicken or turkey instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
  • Add grated Parmesan cheese or feta cheese to the meatball mixture for added flavor.
  • Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko for a different texture.
  • Try using different herbs and spices such as basil, thyme, or cumin to customize the flavor of the meatballs.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with cooked and mashed chickpeas or lentils.
  • Experiment with different types of sauces, such as tzatziki sauce, spicy mayo, or barbecue sauce, to drizzle over the meatballs.
  • Add sliced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the skillet when cooking the meatballs for added vegetables.
  • Instead of pita bread, serve the meatballs in lettuce wraps or over a bed of rice or quinoa.
  • Top the meatball pitas with your favorite garnishes like sliced olives, fresh herbs, or crumbled bacon.
  • Serve the meatballs as an appetizer by inserting toothpicks into the cooked meatballs and serving them with a dipping sauce.

Recipe overview

This delicious Meatball Pita recipe combines flavorful, homemade meatballs with fresh vegetables and a tangy Greek yogurt sauce, all wrapped up in warm pita bread. It's a fun and easy meal that's perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. The meatballs are made with ground beef, onions, and spices, then pan-fried until they're perfectly browned. The Greek yogurt sauce provides a creamy, tangy contrast, while the fresh tomatoes and cucumbers add a refreshing crunch. And the best part? These pitas can be held in one hand, making them a great on-the-go option. Follow this straightforward recipe to bring this mouthwatering dish to your own table.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of ground meat? Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can also use ground chicken, turkey, or lamb.
  2. Can I bake the meatballs instead of cooking them on the stovetop? Yes, you can. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
  3. Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in a skillet or microwave.
  4. Can I use store-bought pita bread? Absolutely! If you don't have the time or means to make your own pita bread, you can use store-bought ones. Just make sure to warm them up before assembling the pitas for a better texture and taste.
  5. Can I add other toppings to the pitas? Of course! Feel free to get creative and add additional toppings such as feta cheese, olives, lettuce, or your favorite sauces to customize the pitas to your liking.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients for the meatballs.
  • Skillet - A large skillet to cook the meatballs.
  • Oven or Toaster - To warm the pita breads.
  • Small Bowl - To combine the Greek yogurt and lemon juice for the sauce.
  • Knife - To finely chop the onion and dice the cucumber and tomatoes.

Origin stories

The ubiquitous meatball has made its way into many cuisines around the world, but it is believed to have originated from Persian meatballs known as Kofta. The Persians, who are known for their nuanced and flavourful cuisine, would grind meat with a variety of spices and then shape them into balls. As their empire expanded, so did the popularity of this simple yet delectable dish. The Greeks, known for their pita bread and yogurts, incorporated these meatballs into their cuisine, giving birth to the Meatball Pitas we know today. The combination of seasoned meat with cool, creamy yogurt, and fresh veggies all nestled in a warm pita bread, captures the Mediterranean's vibrant and healthful culinary spirit in each bite.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.