Description
Gyro Kebabs are a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal featuring seasoned beef and lamb skewers grilled until juicy and served with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for backyard grilling or casual entertaining, these kebabs offer a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that captures the essence of Greek cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Kebabs
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For Serving
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup sliced cucumber
- ½ cup sliced red onion
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, ground beef, minced garlic, grated onion, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a uniform mixture.
- Shape the Kebabs: Divide the seasoned meat mixture into equal portions. Shape each portion around metal skewers or wooden skewers that have been soaked in water to prevent burning. Ensure the meat is firmly packed and evenly distributed along the skewers.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high temperature. This ensures a good sear on the kebabs while cooking them evenly inside.
- Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally. Grill until the kebabs are browned on the outside and cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure safety and tenderness.
- Warm the Pita Bread: While the kebabs finish grilling, warm the pita breads on the grill or in the oven until soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping.
- Assemble and Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest briefly. Serve inside the warmed pita breads along with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced cucumber, red onion, and a generous dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce for authentic flavor.
Notes
- Chill the meat mixture for 30 minutes before shaping to help the kebabs hold their shape better during grilling.
- Metal skewers are preferred for grilling as they conduct heat and cook the meat more evenly; if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- For a complete meal, serve gyro kebabs alongside a traditional Greek salad or roasted potatoes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
