Easy Traditional Greek Gyros
Adapted from my chicken gyros recipe.
Adapted from my chicken gyros recipe.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- gyros:
- 4 cloves garlic (minced or grated)
- 1 onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 pound boneless pork shoulder roast (2-3 or butt)
- 2 teaspoons dried dill
- 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 2 lemons (juiced)
- 3 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons greek yogurt
- 4-8 pitas
- 1/2 cup fresh cherry tomatoes (halved, for serving)
- 1 red onion (thinly sliced, for serving)
- 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese (for serving)
- tzatziki:
- 1 cup plain greek yogurt (i used full fat)
- 1/4 hothouse cucumber (peeled and seeded and diced small)
- 1 large clove garlic (grated (or finely minced))
- 1/2 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon (juiced)
- tapenade (optional):
- 1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup pitted green olives
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- 1 pepperoncini (diced (optional))
- Carbohydrate 19.1961748234583 g
- Cholesterol 25.2597864964757 mg
- Fat 15.862326707101 g
- Fiber 5.01121618127876 g
- Protein 6.85121978974012 g
- Saturated Fat 5.62306647406404 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (332g)
- Sodium 616.444401065798 mg
- Sugar 14.1849586421795 g
- Trans Fat 0.816371662397097 g
- Calories 228 calories
Step-by-step
- Spray a crockpot with cooking spray. Add the onions and garlic.
- In a small bowl combine the oregano, dill, paprika, cayenne, crushed red pepper, salt and pepper. Sprinkle the pork with half of the spice mixture.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the pork and sear on all sides until golden brown (about 2 minutes per side). Try and get a really good caramelization on the meat.
- Add pork to the prepared crockpot and sprinkle with the remaining seasonings and any drippings from the pan. To the crockpot add the 1/3 cup olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, greek yogurt and 3/4 cup of water.
- Cover and cook on low, 8 hours. or high for 4-6 hours. If possible check the pork a few times during cooking. If needed add some water to keep the meat moist.
- To prepare the tzatziki pour any liquid off the surface of the greek yogurt. (I find it is best to use full fat greek yogurt for this, but 2% works ok as well. You want the yogurt to be thick, so if your greek yogurt seems thin strain it through a fine mesh strainer). Mix together the greek yogurt, diced cucumber, garlic, white wine vinegar, dill, oregano, salt and pepper to taste, and lemon juice. Drizzle with olive oil. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- If making the tapenade, dice the olives and mix in a small bowl with the garlic, pepperoncini and parsley. Set aside in the fridge until read to serve.
- After 8 hours (or 4-6 on high) remove the pork and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to touch shred the pork with two forks, it should fall apart easily. Return the pork to the crockpot and toss with the onions. Crank the heat to high. Allow the pork to get warm for five minutes.
- Heat pitas (I just popped them in the microwave for a few seconds). Top with chicken, tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese and tapenade if using. Serve immediately.
A Busy Mom's Guide to Authentic Greek Flavors: Easy Gyros
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between school runs, work deadlines, and keeping the house somewhat tidy, finding time for elaborate cooking feels like a distant dream. Yet, I crave delicious, comforting meals that don’t require a culinary degree or hours in the kitchen. That's where these easy traditional Greek gyros come in. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy authentic Greek flavors without the fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or even a relaxed weekend lunch.
I discovered this recipe while searching for a simple yet flavorful way to utilize a pork shoulder roast I had in the fridge. The slow cooker became my best friend, allowing me to focus on other tasks while the pork simmered to perfection. The aroma that wafted through the house as it cooked was simply irresistible; a testament to the power of simple, quality ingredients. The end result? Juicy, tender pork that practically melts in your mouth. Paired with a homemade tzatziki sauce, fresh tomatoes, crisp red onion, and salty feta, this gyro recipe is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters (including my two!).
The Beauty of Simplicity: What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to swap the pork for chicken or lamb, depending on your preference and what's on sale. You can also adjust the spices to your liking – adding a touch more cayenne for a spicier kick, or omitting it altogether for a milder flavor. The beauty of cooking lies in its ability to be personalized, and this gyro recipe is a prime example. Don't be afraid to experiment with different vegetables or add your own creative touches. The most important aspect is to enjoy the process and the delicious meal that follows.
The Tzatziki Twist: The homemade tzatziki is a game-changer. Forget the store-bought versions; this creamy, refreshing sauce is surprisingly easy to whip up and elevates the entire gyro experience. The combination of tangy yogurt, fresh cucumber, and aromatic herbs is simply delightful. I often double the recipe because it's fantastic as a dip with veggies or as a spread on sandwiches.
A Quick Tip for Busy Weeknights: To save even more time, prepare the tzatziki and tapenade (if using) ahead of time. They’re best served chilled, so making them the day before only enhances their flavors. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting with the pork, meaning you can spend your precious evening time with your family instead of slaving over a hot stove. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of efficient cooking and the joy of sharing a delicious, homemade meal with loved ones.
Beyond the Gyro: The versatility of this recipe extends beyond just gyros. The shredded pork can be used in tacos, salads, or even as a filling for quesadillas. The options are endless! I've even been known to sneak some into my lunchbox for a quick and satisfying midday meal. It's this kind of adaptability that makes this recipe such a staple in my kitchen, a versatile solution for busy days and spontaneous gatherings.
A Taste of Greece Without the Travel: While I’ve always dreamed of exploring the sun-drenched landscapes of Greece, the reality of juggling work and family life hasn't quite allowed for a trip just yet. This gyro recipe serves as a delicious substitute, transporting me to a vibrant taverna without ever leaving my kitchen. Each bite is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients and the power of transforming everyday staples into something truly special. And let's be honest, even the best travel experiences wouldn't be complete without a comforting, home-cooked meal to look forward to upon my return.
This isn't just about following a recipe; it's about creating memories, savoring moments, and reminding ourselves that even amid the chaos of daily life, we can still find joy in the simple act of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. The aroma alone is worth it. Enjoy your gyros!
