Blend the aromatics

• Add the onion, cilantro and the whole jalapeño to a food processor.
• Pulse until finely chopped — you can also hand chop it.

Make the filling

• Transfer the chopped mixture to a bowl.
• Add the hot pepper paste.
• Season with the Middle Eastern herbs and spices, a little allspice and some nutmeg.
• Mix until properly incorporated.
• Add the ground beef and massage it into the mixture until well combined.

Stuff the pita

• Open a pocket in each pita and spread the meat mixture inside.
• Before fully forming it, sprinkle in some shredded cheese.
• Press it flat to an even thickness.

Brush with olive oil

• Brush the stuffed pitas generously with good olive oil on both sides.

Char on the pan

• Heat a pan until super hot.
• Toss the arayes on the pan and cook until nicely charred all over.

Finish in the oven

• Transfer the charred arayes to the oven at 350°F (175°C).
• Bake until the cheese is melted and the meat is cooked through.

Serve

• Slice and serve hot.