Have you ever had the pleasure of indulging in the deliciousness of shawarma or gyro? If you haven’t, you’re missing out! Both are Middle Eastern dishes, popular street food in many countries worldwide.
They are made with various meats and spices and served on a flatbread or pita. But don’t let the similarities fool you, there are some key differences between the two dishes that make them unique.
In today’s article, let’s explore the difference between the two. Here’s what you need to know:
Gyro vs. Shawarma
Gyro is a Greek dish of thinly sliced, seasoned lamb or pork cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is then served on a flatbread with vegetables and a tzatziki sauce. Gyro has a strong, savory flavor with a hint of sweetness and garlic.
On the other hand, Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish made by stacking seasoned, marinated meats such as beef, lamb, or chicken onto a vertical spit. The meat is then cooked slowly and thinly sliced before being served in a pita wrap or flatbread with vegetables, sauces, and pickles. Shawarma has a strong, smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness from the marinade.
Taste
When it comes to taste, Gyro and Shawarma both have their unique flavors. Gyro is savory with a hint of sweetness and garlic, while Shawarma has a smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness from the marinade.
To add flavor and texture, both dishes can be topped with various sauces, pickles, and vegetables.
Ingredients
The main difference between shawarma and gyro is the type of meat used. Shawarma is typically made with chicken, turkey, beef, or lamb, while gyro is traditionally made with pork. Shawarma is also cooked on a vertical rotisserie, while gyro is cooked on a horizontal rotisserie.
In terms of ingredients, both dishes typically include thinly sliced meat, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tahini sauce. Shawarma may also include pickles, french fries, and hot sauce, while gyro may include feta cheese, cucumber, and tzatziki sauce.
Nutrition
Gyros are traditionally served in pita bread and typically contain about 500-600 calories per serving. The main source of calories in a gyro comes from beef or lamb, which is typically high in fat and protein. The pita bread is usually made with white flour, which is low in fiber but high in carbohydrates. The tomatoes, onions, and tahini sauce add vitamins and minerals but only a few calories.
Shawarma, on the other hand, is usually served on a plate with rice or hummus. A typical serving of shawarma has about 600-700 calories, slightly higher than a gyro. The main source of calories in shawarma is still beef or lamb, but hummus or rice adds some extra carbohydrates. The vegetables, such as tomatoes and onions, are also a source of vitamins and minerals.
In terms of fat and protein, both gyros and shawarmas are similar. A typical serving of either dish contains about 15-20 grams of fat and 20-25 grams of protein. This makes them a good source of both macronutrients.
When it comes to vitamins and minerals, shawarma has a slight edge over gyros. This is because the hummus and rice in the shawarma add a few extra vitamins and minerals not found in the gyro.
The Bottom Line
Gyro and Shawarma are two very delicious dishes that offer a variety of flavors, textures, and aromas. They are both perfect for a meal, as they can be enjoyed as a wrap, sandwich, or pita. Both dishes offer a great combination of proteins, vegetables, and sauces that satisfy the taste buds. Gyro and Shawarma can be found in many restaurants and are an excellent choice for those looking for a flavorful and filling meal.
If you’re from Chesterton, Indiana, and all this talk of Greek cuisine has your stomach rumbling, we’ve got just the thing for you. George’s Gyros Spot is the best place to go to satisfy all your Greek food cravings. We offer everything from traditional gyros to burgers and fries. Come by our restaurant or order online!