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Elk Pita Smash

Original recipe is from Ara Zada on Harvesting Nature. Jessica tested the recipe and paired it with our Sauvignon Blanc.

The crisp freshness of the wine perfectly complemented the lemon and tangy yogurt and added a brightness to the whole dish. The pita pockets dipped in the sauce punched up the brightness and tropical aromatics in the wine without taking over the palate. Together these two make for a meal that is perfect on a warm summer evening.

Read Jessica's recipe notes and wine pairing recommendations here.

Ingredients

  • 1lb Elk, Ground (You can also use Venison, Antelope, Beef or Lamb)    
  • 1/2 onion, finely diced    
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced    
  • 2 TB parsley, chopped    
  • 1/4 tsp cumin    
  • 1 tsp salt    
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper    
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced    
  • 1/4 cup red pepper paste (optional)    
  • 2 bags pita bread    
  • For the Dipping Sauce    
  • 1/2 cup plain greek yogurt    
  • 2 TB olive oil    
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced    
  • 1 tsp parsley, minced    
  • Salt and pepper, to taste    

Instructions

1.) Preheat oven or smoker to 400 degrees.

2.) In a large mixing bowl, mix all the ingredients except the pita bread and olive oil together.

3.) Cut the pita bread in half and open them up gently to create pockets.

4.) Divide the Elk mixture into 4 equal parts.

5.) Place one part of the meat mixture into each pita pocket. Spread the meat so it gets all around in the pocket. Close the pocket and gently smash it down.

6.) Place the pockets on a sheet pan with a wire rack. Brush both sides with a little bit of olive oil. Then place them in the oven for ~10 minutes. Flip them over and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the bread gets a nice golden color.

7.) While waiting, combine all the ingredients for the yogurt dipping sauce in a small bowl and mix well.

8.) Serve hot with yogurt dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!

Paired Wines

2022 TR Passalacqua Ispirato

2022 TR Passalacqua Ispirato

Bordeaux style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Malbec from the TR Passalacqua Ranch.
Highly Recommended
$82