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Gyros

A classic Greek dish made with spiced meat, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Meat Mixture
  • 1 lb ground beef (80% lean) Adds richness to the dish.
  • 1 lb ground lamb Enhances the flavor profiles.
  • ½ cup plain bread crumbs Acts as a binder to keep the meat soft.
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adds a spicy kick.
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin Adds earthy depth.
For Serving
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the gyro slices.
  • 4 pieces pita bread Warm for serving.
  • 1 cup tzatziki sauce Essential for topping.
  • 1 cup thinly sliced tomatoes
  • ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • ½ cup crumbly feta cheese

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and position a baking rack in the center.
  2. Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
  3. In a food processor, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, and cumin. Process until well combined and paste-like.
  4. Form the mixture into two free-form loaves, approximately 8 inches long and 1 inch high. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Cooking
  1. Bake the loaves in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes, until the center reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  2. Let the loaves rest for about 10 minutes before slicing them thinly.
Serving
  1. Heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook the gyro slices in batches for 30 to 60 seconds per side until they are light brown.
  3. Assemble the gyros in warm pita bread, topping with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, onion, lettuce, and feta cheese.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the meat mixture overnight. Use freshly baked pita and add lemon juice for brightness. Grilling gyro slices adds a smoky flavor.