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k_tsoukalas

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Sometimes I can't find all the ingredients that I need, such as the pita bread that is used, or the traditional meat. Any advice on ways I can get it to taste good when I can't find all the right ingredients?
 
The best way to experience a gyro is by dinning in or at at your favorite local Greek restaurant.

But if trying to make a gyro at home, my thought is as long you have authentic Greek pita bread that is heated (on a grill) and tzatziki with properly seasoned Greek style meat or chicken this should do the trick! :)

traditional-gyro-e1568063974781-720x960.jpeg
 
The seasoning for gyro should be readily available in any super market, the trick is to have the butcher slice the meat for you super thin before you broil it. Also, if you don't have access to traditional pita bread, you could use syrian pita as a substitute. It doesn't taste the same but there are souvlaki/gyro shops in Greece that use this alternative pita.
 
Thanks guys! Do you know if I can make a seasoning blend myself at home?
 
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I know it can vary by region but my go to Gyro and Souvlaki seasoning is: Kosher salt, black pepper, Oregano, Garlic Powder, Cumin & paprika. Be generous with the spices!!!
 
The best way to experience a gyro is by dinning in or at at your favorite local Greek restaurant.

But if trying to make a gyro at home, my thought is as long you have authentic Greek pita bread that is heated (on a grill) and tzatziki with properly seasoned Greek style meat or chicken this should do the trick! :)

View attachment 60
I agree, especially if you want to get a classic pork gyro. Chicken souvlaki is a bit easier to make at home, but the consistency of actual gyro is super hard to replicate.
 

Do You Put Cinnamon in Your Keftedes?

I’m curious how everyone here makes keftedes, especially when it comes to cinnamon. I know some Greek families add a little cinnamon to the meat mixture, while others would never think of putting it in.

In my experience, even a small amount can change the flavor quite a bit. It gives the keftedes a warmer, slightly sweeter spice in the background, but I can also see how it might not be for everyone. I’ve had versions that lean more heavily on oregano, mint, parsley, garlic, and onion instead.

Do you put cinnamon in your keftedes? If you do, how much do you usually use, and was that something your family always did? I’d also be curious to know if it varies depending on what part of Greece your family comes from.

Would love to hear how everyone seasons theirs and what you consider essential for really good keftedes.

How does your family season dolmades?

I’ve been thinking about how much dolmades can vary from one family to another, especially when it comes to seasoning. Even when the basic ingredients are similar, the flavor can be completely different depending on which herbs and spices are used.

How does your family season dolmades? Do you use mostly dill and parsley, or do you add mint as well? I’ve also seen recipes that include green onions, oregano, or even a little cinnamon, especially when meat is part of the filling.

I’m curious whether you season the rice mixture pretty heavily before rolling the grape leaves or keep it simple and let the lemon and olive oil provide most of the flavor. Does your family add lemon juice directly to the filling, or only during cooking and serving?

I’d especially love to hear about any regional or family traditions. What gives your dolmades their distinctive flavor?

Do you put potatoes in your briam?

I've noticed that there are quite a few variations of briam, especially when it comes to which vegetables people include. One ingredient I'm particularly curious about is potatoes. Do you always put potatoes in your briam, or do you prefer making it without them?

I usually think of briam as a combination of zucchini, eggplant, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and plenty of olive oil. I love how the potatoes absorb all those wonderful flavors as everything slowly roasts together in the oven.

However, I've seen recipes that leave the potatoes out entirely and focus more on the summer vegetables. I imagine that makes the dish a little lighter.

I'm also curious whether there are regional differences in how briam is prepared throughout Greece. Does your family have a particular way of making it? And what vegetables do you consider absolutely essential?

Do you make your pastitsio with a thick or thin layer of krema?

I've always preferred my pastitsio with a nice, thick layer of béchamel on top. To me, that's one of the best parts of the dish! I love when the krema is rich, creamy, and thick enough to hold its shape when you cut into the pastitsio.

The problem is that I've been having trouble getting my krema just right. Sometimes it comes out too thin, and other times the texture isn't quite as smooth as I'd like. I've tried adjusting the amount of flour and milk, but I still haven't found the perfect balance.

I'm curious how everyone else makes theirs. Do you prefer a thick layer of béchamel or just enough to cover the pasta? Does your family add eggs or cheese to the mixture?

I'd especially love to hear any tips for making a thick, smooth krema that sets beautifully when baked!

What is the secret to making really good Greek lemon potatoes?

I've been making Greek lemon potatoes for years, and it's one of those dishes I make completely by feel. I don't measure anything, and I never really thought about how I make them because it's all second nature to me.

Recently, I tried teaching someone how to make them. Everything seemed straightforward while we were cooking together, but when they went home and tried making them on their own, all kinds of things went wrong! The potatoes weren't cooking evenly, the texture wasn't quite right, and the lemon flavor didn't come through the way it should.

It made me realize how much I rely on instinct when cooking traditional Greek food. I rarely write down recipes, so explaining every little detail is harder than I expected!

For those who make Greek lemon potatoes regularly, what tips would you give someone who's just learning?
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