Description
These Gyros Smashed Tacos combine the bold, aromatic flavors of spiced ground lamb with fresh Mediterranean toppings and a creamy Greek yogurt sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, these tacos feature crispy lamb patties smashed and cooked on the stovetop, served with diced cucumber, tomato, red onion, feta cheese, and fresh parsley on warm tortillas. The tangy yogurt sauce adds a refreshing contrast, making this dish a delicious fusion of Greek and Mexican-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lamb Patties:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Toppings:
- 8 small soft corn or flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Hot sauce (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lamb Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the spices are evenly incorporated into the meat.
- Cook the Lamb Patties: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add spoonfuls of the spiced lamb mixture into the skillet, pressing each down with a spatula to flatten and form small patties. Cook without disturbing until the bottoms are well browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Carefully flip each patty and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through.
- Make the Yogurt Sauce: While the lamb cooks, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Stir well to blend the flavors. Adjust seasoning as desired.
- Warm the Tortillas: Briefly warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over low heat or microwave them for about 20 seconds until pliable and warm.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place one smashed lamb patty on each warmed tortilla. Top with diced cucumber, diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Drizzle each taco with the yogurt sauce. Add hot sauce if desired for extra heat.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Gyros Smashed Tacos right away to enjoy the contrast of crispy meat and fresh, cool toppings at their best.
Notes
- For a more authentic gyro flavor, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or ground coriander to the lamb mixture.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this recipe.
- Serve with homemade pita chips or a simple Greek salad to complement the flavors.
- Corn tortillas make this dish gluten-free—ensure all ingredients match your dietary needs accordingly.
