Delicious and Authentic Traditional Gyros
I absolutely love being able to make my own gyros at home! One of the significant aspects of this delightful dish is the use of onion, ground beef, and other traditional gyros ingredients. Not only do these ingredients offer robust flavors, but they also provide a nutritious meal that everyone will enjoy.
Yield for Traditional Gyros
This recipe serves 12 portions and takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes in total. With a 15-minute prep time and 45-minute cook time, this meal is perfect for a family gathering or a meal prep day. The additional 2 hours and 15 minutes are for marinating, which enhances the flavors to perfection.
Traditional Gyros Ingredients
To create your homemade gyros, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 small onion, cut into chunks
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Boiling water as needed
- 12 tablespoons hummus
- 12 pita bread rounds
- 1 small head lettuce, shredded
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1 large red onion, sliced
- 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 24 tablespoons tzatziki sauce
Instructions for Perfect Traditional Gyros
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Traditional Gyros
- In a food processor, combine chopped onion, ground beef, ground lamb, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, marjoram, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and sea salt. Blend until the mixture is homogeneous.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Press the meat mixture into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
- Place the loaf pan into a larger pan, and fill the larger pan halfway up the sides of the loaf pan with boiling water.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the meat registers 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Slice the meat thinly, especially if you want those classic gyro slices.
- Warm the pita bread in the oven for a few minutes.
- Assemble the gyros by spreading a tablespoon of hummus on each pita, adding slices of meat, lettuce, tomato, onion, crumbled feta cheese, and a generous serving of tzatziki sauce.
Healthier Cooking Option
For a healthier twist, consider grilling the mixed meat on skewers instead of using the loaf pan. This can reduce some fat content and provide a smoky flavor akin to authentic Greek gyros.
Why You’ll Love This Traditional Gyros Recipe
Quick & Easy with Robust Flavors
Traditional Gyros provides a balanced meal with a combination of protein, vegetables, and whole grains. With a preparation time that fits for an afternoon get-together, this recipe is both vibrant and filling. Furthermore, the wonderful mix of herbs not only intensifies the taste but also delivers a wholesome benefit, enhancing nutritional value.
Try this recipe today and bring a touch of Greek cuisine to your kitchen. Above all, enjoy the process and taste the enriching flavors of traditional cooking!