Lamb Gyros: A Taste of the Mediterranean

Bring the flavors of Greece to your kitchen with these delicious Lamb Gyros. Tender, seasoned lamb is wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with fresh vegetables and a creamy tzatziki sauce. This dish is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner and will transport you straight to the Mediterranean. Let’s get started on making these mouthwatering gyros!

Ingredients

For the Lamb:

• 1 pound ground lamb
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, grated or finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Gyros:

• 4-6 pita bread rounds, warmed
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Lamb:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, minced garlic, grated onion, oregano, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to avoid tough meat.
2. Cook the Lamb:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the lamb mixture to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the lamb is browned and cooked through.
   • Drain any excess fat and set the cooked lamb aside.
3. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Refrigerate until ready to use.
4. Assemble the Gyros:
   • Lay a warm pita bread on a plate. Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce down the center.
   • Add a portion of the cooked lamb on top of the tzatziki.
   • Top with sliced red onion, tomato, shredded lettuce, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
5. Serve:
   • Fold the pita around the filling, wrapping it tightly.
   • Serve immediately with extra tzatziki sauce on the side.

How to Prepare

These Lamb Gyros are all about bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The lamb is seasoned with aromatic spices that give it a rich, savory taste. Tzatziki sauce adds a cool, creamy element that balances the spices in the lamb. The warm pita bread and fresh veggies add texture and freshness to each bite. For the best experience, assemble and serve the gyros immediately while the lamb is still warm.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes 4-6 gyros.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of meat?
   • Yes, ground beef, chicken, or turkey can be used as substitutes for lamb. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
2. What if I don’t have pita bread?
   • You can use naan, flatbread, or even tortillas as alternatives.
3. Can I make the lamb mixture ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the lamb mixture up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
4. What can I serve with gyros?
   • Gyros pair well with a Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or rice pilaf.
5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   • Yes, use gluten-free pita bread or wrap the gyro filling in lettuce leaves for a gluten-free option.