Gyro (Greek-Style)

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Gyro is a classic Greek dish featuring tender, seasoned meat, typically lamb, chicken, or pork, served wrapped in a warm pita bread with a variety of fresh vegetables and a tangy yogurt-based tzatziki sauce. The meat is traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, but this recipe adapts it for home cooking, ensuring the same delicious flavors in an easier-to-make format.

Here are the easiest and most popular locations to find Gyros from street vendors in major Greek cities:

Athens

- Monastiraki Square: One of the most famous areas in Athens, filled with street food stalls and small shops selling gyros. Try popular spots like Savvas and Bairaktaris, known for their traditional flavors.

- Syntagma Square: Located in the heart of Athens, you’ll find several food vendors and small eateries offering gyros, especially near Ermou Street.

- Plaka: The historic neighborhood under the Acropolis is filled with tavernas and street vendors where you can easily grab a gyro while exploring the ancient streets.

These locations are some of the easiest and most popular spots to find gyros from street vendors in Greece, offering an authentic taste of Greek street food in lively and accessible settings.

Ingredients:

For the Meat:

- 2 lbs (900g) boneless lamb, pork, or chicken thighs

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 large onion, grated or finely chopped

- Juice of 1 lemon

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 1 tablespoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

- 1 cup Greek yogurt

- 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

- Juice of 1/2 lemon

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pita Wrap:

- 4-6 large pita breads

- 1 large tomato, thinly sliced

- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

- 1/2 head iceberg lettuce or romaine, shredded

- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

- Extra olive oil for brushing the pita bread

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Meat:

  - In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated onion, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.

  - Add the meat to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.

2. Cook the Meat:

  - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or set up a grill for medium-high heat.

  - For oven cooking: Place the marinated meat on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 25-35 minutes (depending on the meat used), or until fully cooked. For extra crispiness, you can broil the meat for the last 5 minutes.

  - For grilling: Cook the meat on the grill, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.

  - Once cooked, let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice thinly.

3. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

  - While the meat is cooking, prepare the tzatziki. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water), minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.

  - Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use.

4. Warm the Pita Bread:

  - Lightly brush each pita bread with olive oil and warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until soft and pliable.

5. Assemble the Gyros:

  - Lay a warm pita bread flat and place a few slices of the cooked meat in the center.

  - Top with a spoonful of tzatziki sauce, tomato slices, red onion, shredded lettuce, and crumbled feta cheese if using.

  - Fold the pita over the filling, wrapping it tightly. You can wrap the bottom half in parchment paper or foil to keep it secure and easy to eat.

6. Serve:

  - Serve the gyros immediately, while the pita is warm and the meat is still juicy. Enjoy with extra tzatziki sauce on the side.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

- Fat: 20g

 - Saturated Fat: 6g

- Protein: 35g

- Carbohydrates: 30g

 - Sugars: 4g

- Fiber: 2g

Notes:

- Meat Choice: Lamb is the most traditional meat used in gyros, but chicken and pork are also common. Each type of meat will provide a slightly different flavor profile.

- Tzatziki: The tzatziki can be made a day in advance to save time and allow the flavors to develop even more.

- Serving Suggestions: Gyros are often enjoyed with a side of Greek salad, fries, or roasted potatoes.

This Greek gyro recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's packed with flavor. The combination of tender, spiced meat, creamy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables wrapped in warm pita makes it a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends!

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