Gyros Seasoning, Pimenta, 100 g

Gyros is one of the most iconic and beloved Greek street foods, a symbol of Mediterranean cuisine and the Greek way of life. The name “gyros” comes from the Greek word γύρος, meaning “to turn” or “to rotate” - a reference to the traditional method of cooking the meat on a vertical rotisserie grill.

Gyros is often compared to Arabic doner kebab and Middle Eastern shawarma, as the cooking technique is similar. The main differences, however, lie in the spices, sauces, and bread - in gyros they are distinctly Greek, giving the dish a fresher, herb-forward, and mildly spicy flavor profile.

In Greece, gyros is most commonly prepared with pork or chicken and served in a thicker pita bread with tomatoes, onions, French fries, and the classic tzatziki sauce.
In other countries, gyros has been adapted to local tastes, using different meats, sauces, and garnishes, while the characteristic aroma of the spices remains at the heart of the dish.

In Bulgaria, gyros gained popularity after the year 2000, alongside the growth of Greek restaurants and seaside resorts. Gradually, it found its place in street food culture as well, often offered as an alternative to doner kebab. Bulgarian consumers appreciate gyros for its more balanced flavor, aromatic herbs, and fresh sauces.

Homemade gyros - authentic and healthier

Beyond the ready-made gyros widely available on the market, more and more people prefer to prepare homemade gyros. This allows full control over meat quality, salt and fat content, and the choice of spices. Homemade gyros is not only healthier, but also much richer in flavor when prepared with a well-balanced seasoning blend.

Ingredients and benefits of the gyros seasoning

The gyros seasoning is created as a harmonious combination of herbs and spices typical of Greek cuisine:
Salt - enhances flavor and balances the aromas.
Paprika - adds color and a mildly sweet, full-bodied taste.
White oregano - a classic Greek herb with an intense aroma and antibacterial properties.
Garlic - adds characteristic pungency and is known for its beneficial effects on the immune system.
Onion - contributes sweetness and depth of flavor.
Black pepper - mildly spicy and warming, supports digestion.
Chili powder - provides subtle heat and extra character.
Nutmeg - a warming spice with a soft, rich aroma.
Cinnamon - adds a lightly sweet, slightly oriental note typical of traditional gyros.

The combination of these ingredients creates a balanced, fresh, and authentic Greek flavor that turns any meat into true gyros.

Ingredients:

Salt, Paprika, White oregano, Garlic, Onion, Black pepper, Chili powder, Nutmeg, Cinnamon.

Directions for use:

Use as a culinary seasoning.

How to prepare homemade gyros - ideas and recipes

Gyros seasoning is suitable for chicken, pork, and beef and can be used in several ways:

Option 1: Classic Greek marinade
Mix the seasoning with a small amount of olive oil, white wine, and thinly sliced onion. Marinate the meat with this mixture and leave it in the refrigerator for several hours (preferably overnight), then grill or cook on a barbecue.

Option 2: Pan-fried or oven-baked gyros
Cook the marinated meat in a pan or bake it in the oven until golden, then slice it into thin strips. A convenient option for home cooking.

Option 3: Gyros in pita
Serve the cooked meat in Greek pita bread with tomatoes, onions, French fries, and tzatziki sauce. It can also be served on a plate with side dishes or as a sandwich.

Recommended dosage:

One 100 g package of gyros seasoning is sufficient to season approximately 4-6 kg of meat, depending on the desired intensity of flavor.

Typically, 15-25 g of seasoning per 1 kg of meat is used when preparing gyros, depending on:
- the type of meat (chicken requires less, pork and beef require more);
- whether a milder or more intense flavor is desired;
- the marinating method (dry marinade or marinade with olive oil and wine).

100 g of gyros seasoning is sufficient for approximately:
- 4-6 kg of meat - standard seasoning;
- up to 7 kg of meat - mild flavor;
- around 4 kg of meat - a richer, more authentic Greek flavor.

Packaging: 100 g