What is Gyros?

Gyros (pronounced yee-rohs) is a Greek street food that consists of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, shaved off in thin slices, and typically served in a pita bread with tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and tzatziki sauce—a tangy yogurt and cucumber dip. The meat can be pork, chicken, lamb, or beef, with pork being the most traditional option in Greece.

Gyros are often enjoyed on the go, making them the perfect meal for busy locals and tourists alike. They are similar to other Mediterranean wraps like Turkish döner kebab or Middle Eastern shawarma but have their own distinct Greek flair, primarily due to the unique spices and accompaniments used in the dish.

A Brief History of Gyros

The origin of gyros can be traced back to ancient Greece, where people used to cook meat on spits over open flames. However, the modern version of gyros, cooked on a vertical rotisserie, was likely influenced by Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine. The word “gyros” itself means “turn” in Greek, referring to the rotating spit on which the meat is cooked.

Gyros, as we know it today, became a popular street food in Greece in the 20th century, especially after Greek immigrants returned from Asia Minor and brought with them new culinary influences. Over the years, gyros evolved into a quintessential part of Greek street food culture and spread to other parts of the world, especially North America and Europe, where it remains a popular dish in Greek restaurants.

The Perfect Gyros: Ingredients and Preparation

What makes gyros truly special is the combination of fresh, tasty and high-quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the core components:

1. The Meat

The star of gyros is the meat, traditionally pork in Greece, though chicken, lamb, or beef are also common. The meat is seasoned with a mixture of herbs and spices, which typically includes oregano, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. The seasoned meat is stacked onto a vertical rotisserie, where it slowly cooks and rotates, allowing the edges to become crispy while the inside remains tender.

The meat is then shaved off in thin slices to be wrapped in pita bread or served on a plate alongside accompaniments.

2. Pita Bread

Gyros is typically served in a soft, warm pita bread that is slightly grilled before being used to wrap the meat and toppings. The pita is thick enough to hold all the fillings without breaking but still soft enough to be easily folded. In some variations, the pita may be brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with oregano or other spices before grilling.

3. Toppings

The most common toppings for gyros are fresh slices of tomato, onion, and lettuce. These ingredients add freshness and crunch, perfectly complementing the savoury, spiced meat. Some variations might include French fries stuffed inside the pita, adding an extra layer of flavour and texture to the wrap.

4. Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki is a must-have component of a traditional gyros. This refreshing sauce is made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and dill or mint. It adds a creamy, tangy element that balances out the rich, flavourful meat.

5. Additional Condiments

While tzatziki is the classic sauce, some gyros might be served with mustard, ketchup, or even spicy sauces, depending on regional preferences and personal taste.

Why You Should Try Gyros

There are many reasons why gyros is a must-try when visiting Greece or enjoying Greek cuisine in general. Here’s why:

1. Rich Flavour

Gyros is all about bold flavours. The combination of marinated, slow-cooked meat with the tanginess of tzatziki, the crunch of fresh vegetables, and the warm, grilled pita creates a burst of taste in every bite. Whether you choose pork, chicken, or lamb, each version offers a different flavor profile, but all are equally delicious.

2. Convenience

Gyros is the perfect street food because it’s convenient to eat on the go. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Athens or simply looking for a quick lunch, a gyros wrap is a satisfying meal that’s easy to carry and eat without utensils.

3. Affordability

One of the best things about gyros is its affordability. Despite its rich flavours and generous portions, gyros is one of the most affordable meals in Greece. For just a few euros, you can enjoy a filling and delicious meal.

4. Customizable

Gyros is highly customizable, which is part of its appeal. You can choose your preferred type of meat, add or omit toppings to suit your taste, and even choose the type of sauce. This makes it an excellent option for both adventurous eaters and those who prefer simpler flavours.

Gyros Variations

While the classic gyros with pork and tzatziki is the most popular version in Greece, there are several delicious variations you can try:

• Chicken Gyros: Made with marinated chicken, this lighter version is equally tasty and often served with a garlic yogurt sauce.
  
  
• Lamb Gyros: In some regions, lamb is used as the primary meat for gyros. This version is especially popular outside of Greece, where lamb is more commonly associated with Mediterranean cuisine.
  
  
• Beef Gyros: Though less traditional, beef gyros can be found in some areas, especially in regions with Turkish or Middle Eastern influence.
  
  
• Vegetarian Gyros: For those who don’t eat meat, some places offer vegetarian versions with grilled halloumi cheese, falafel, or a mixture of grilled vegetables and tzatziki.
  
  

Where to Find the Best Gyros in Greece

If you’re traveling to Greece, here are some places where you can find the best gyros:

1. Athens: The capital city is full of street vendors and casual restaurants (known as souvlatzidika) offering gyros. Head to the Monastiraki area or the neighborhood of Plaka for some of the best options.
   
   

2. Thessaloniki: Known for its delicious street food, Thessaloniki is a great place to enjoy a well-seasoned, generously portioned gyros.
   
   

3. Santorini & Mykonos: While these islands are famous for their stunning views, they also offer excellent gyros at local tavernas and street stands.
   
   

Conclusion

Gyros is the quintessential Greek street food, combining tasty marinated meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki, all wrapped in a soft pita. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, gyros is a perfect choice. Its rich history, customizable options, and unbeatable taste make it a must-try when visiting Greece or exploring Greek cuisine.