Mix the meat and spices in a bowl, except the salt.
Create patties from the beef (about 6cm/2½inches in diameter).
Heat the pan to high heat and add the oil if using.
Place the patties in the pan and immediately press them gently with a spatula.
Salt the patties. When they brown on the side facing the pan (~5 minutes), flip them and salt the other side as well. Don't press them again.
When the patties are browned on both sides, take them out and serve immediately with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and Tahini on the side or all inside the pita bread. As the patties should be served immediately, prepare the sides in advance.
If you want the patties well done, you can leave them for more time on the pan and lower the heat. For lesser cooked patties, create thicker patties.