Gyro

Gyro is a beloved Greek dish that has gained international popularity for its irresistible combination of tender meat, fragrant spices, and refreshing toppings. This delectable street food is a true embodiment of Greek cuisine and offers a delightful burst of flavors with every bite. In this article, we will take a closer look at the art of making gyro and present a delicious recipe that you can recreate in your own kitchen.

The Art of Gyro Making: Gyro is traditionally made with marinated meat, usually pork, chicken, or lamb, which is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is thinly sliced and served in a warm pita bread, accompanied by a variety of toppings, sauces, and garnishes. The combination of tender meat, crispy edges, and fresh condiments creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

A Recipe for Classic Greek Gyro:

Ingredients:

For the Gyro Marinade:

• 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless lamb, pork, or chicken
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Greek pita bread
• Tzatziki sauce (recipe follows)
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced onions
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Sliced cucumbers (optional)
• Kalamata olives (optional)

For Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Gyro Marinade:
   • In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a paste-like marinade.
   • Add the lamb, pork, or chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the flavors to infuse.
2. Cook the Gyro:
   • Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
   • Remove the marinated meat from the refrigerator and thread it onto a skewer or rotisserie rod.
   • Grill or broil the meat, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred on the edges. The cooking time will vary depending on the type of meat and thickness of the slices.
   • Once cooked, remove the meat from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the meat thinly across the grain.
3. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
   • In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, chopped fresh dill (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
4. Assemble the Gyro:
   • Warm the Greek pita bread either on the grill or in a microwave for a few seconds.
   • Spread a generous amount of Tzatziki sauce on the pita bread.
   • Add the sliced meat, tomatoes, onions, sliced cucumbers (if desired), and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
   • Fold the pita bread over the filling, creating a wrap-like shape.
   • Serve the gyro immediately, accompanied by Kalamata olives and additional Tzatziki sauce on the side.