What are Gyros Made Of and How Do You Put One Together?
Gyros is a popular dish in Greek cuisine, where they are thought to have originated. Gyros have grown in popularity worldwide, but the methods and materials used to make them differ widely. Here’s all you need to know about authentic Greek gyros and how to make them.
A gyro is a delicious Greek wrap (sandwich) or plate comprised of pita bread, gyro meat, veggies, and tzatziki sauce. Authentic Greek gyros are produced with specific components, even though gyros can be made with a broad range of ingredients, as is more typically done outside of Greece. When individuals want a gyro similar to what they would get in Greece, they cook it traditionally.
The gyro dates back to the Ottoman Empire, and by the 1970s, it had become a popular fast food. The gyroscope initially appeared in Chicago and New York City in the 1970s.
Traditional Gyro Ingredients
So, what is in a traditional Gyro? Here’s a look at the ingredients:
Pita Bread
Greek pita bread is unlike any other on the market. The bread is light and fluffy, and it must be done correctly. You can always purchase it if you don’t know how to manufacture it. Pita bread can be frozen, so buy or bake lots of it ahead of time and freeze it, so you always have it on hand when you want to make gyros!
Gyro Meat
There are many different types of meat used in gyro meat. The most common is pork and lamb, which is traditionally used in Greece, but chicken is just as common.The meat is prepared in a tandoori oven and is typically seasoned with red wine vinegar, lemon juice, spices, and in some cases, coconut milk.
Lamb and chicken gyro meat are easier to find in America, but you can always substitute beef if you can’t find lamb. There are many different brands of gyro meat that you can buy, but if you can’t find it, you can always prepare the meat yourself!
Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce is a creamy sauce made from strained yogurt, cucumbers, and garlic. It’s a great complement to the salty meat in a gyro sandwich and can be used as a dip for French fries and grilled meat as well. The tzatziki sauce is straightforward to make, and you can use it for other recipes as well.
Other Ingredients
Other components that can be found in gyros include as follows. Typically, they incorporate veggies like diced tomatoes and onions. Some recipes involve a small amount of diced cucumber. Feta cheese is almost typically included as well. Some variations add a few French fries, which is rather typical in Greece.
What Spices Are Used in a Gyro?
Here are some of the spices and herbs you can use to season your gyro meat. You can use all of them or just a few; it’s up to you!
- Oregano
- Cumin
- Marjoram
- Cinnamon
- Cayenne
How Do You Put Together A Gyro?
There are many ways to make a gyro, but the most common way is a Greek-style. The gyro is typically wrapped up in pita bread, and the ingredients are layered in it.
Gyros in Greece are constantly rolled. Because pita bread does not always stay together, it is generally covered with aluminum foil. This not only stops the sandwich from falling apart, but also keeps it warm. On the counter, place a huge piece of foil. Place pita bread on a piece of foil. Spread the gyro meat, feta cheese, veggies, fries (optional), and another dollop of tzatziki on top. Wrap the sandwich in foil after rolling it.
Conclusion
The Gyro is a staple in Greek cuisine and is delicious! If you’re looking for a great new recipe, this is it. The ingredients in a traditional gyro are easy to get and are affordable.
If you’re craving Chicago dogs, Italian beef, Polish dogs, cheeseburgers, gyros burgers, and more, head over to George’s Gyros Spot. Our restaurant is one of the best in town, and we take pride in serving delicious dishes topped with exceptional service. Whether you want to dine-in, drive-thru, or take out — give us a call, and we can help you satisfy your cravings today!