Gyros
Meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, typically pork or chicken, served in pita bread with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Gyros is derived from the Turkish döner kebab, which itself evolved from the Ottoman Empire's shish kebab. The vertical rotisserie cooking method was adapted in Greece, and the dish was further developed with distinct Greek flavors and ingredients.
Gyros is a staple of Greek street food, representing a quick, affordable, and satisfying meal enjoyed by people of all walks of life. It's often associated with casual dining and social gatherings.
Street Food Staple
Gyros is predominantly a street food, found at countless vendors throughout Greece and around the world. It is often enjoyed on the go or at casual outdoor seating areas.
Social Gathering Food
Gyros, along with souvlaki and other Greek delicacies, is often served at informal social gatherings, offering a convenient and flavorful option for feeding a crowd.
Modern Adaptation of Traditional Flavors
Gyros represents a modern take on traditional Greek flavors, adapting ancient grilling techniques and ingredients to suit contemporary dining habits.
Gyros boasts a savory, meaty flavor profile balanced by fresh vegetables and a tangy, creamy sauce. The marinated meat is the star, complemented by the cool, refreshing tzatziki.
The primary flavor comes from the spiced and marinated meat, typically pork or chicken, though other meats like lamb or beef can be used. Common spices include oregano, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. The pita bread offers a soft, slightly chewy base. The tomatoes provide acidity and freshness, while onions add a pungent bite. Tzatziki sauce, made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, delivers a cool and creamy counterpoint to the richness of the meat.
Meat Marination
Marinating the meat for at least several hours, or preferably overnight, allows the flavors to fully penetrate and tenderize the meat.
Even Cooking
Ensure the meat is cooked evenly on the vertical rotisserie, regularly trimming the cooked outer layers to maintain consistent texture and prevent burning.
Tzatziki Consistency
Strain the cucumber used in the tzatziki sauce to remove excess water, preventing the sauce from becoming too runny. A thick and creamy tzatziki is essential for the perfect gyros experience.
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