Grilled Gyro Burgers Recipe

Ground lamb: The main protein for the burgers, providing a rich and savory flavor.

Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the lamb patties.

Ground coriander: Brings a slightly citrusy and nutty taste to the mix.

Paprika: Adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the patties.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.

Garlic: Provides a pungent and aromatic element to both the patties and the sauce.

Olive oil: Helps to bind the patties and adds a touch of richness.

Greek yogurt: The base for the tzatziki sauce, offering a creamy and tangy contrast to the lamb.

Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch and coolness to the tzatziki sauce.

Lemon juice: Brings a bright acidity to the sauce, balancing the richness of the yogurt.

Dill: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the tzatziki sauce.

When preparing the tzatziki sauce, make sure to thoroughly drain the grated cucumber. Excess moisture can make the sauce too watery. To do this, place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This will ensure your sauce has the perfect creamy consistency.

• ground lamb - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef has a similar texture and can absorb the spices well, making it a good alternative.

• ground cumin - Substitute with ground caraway seeds: Caraway seeds have a similar earthy flavor profile to cumin.

• ground coriander - Substitute with ground fennel seeds: Fennel seeds provide a sweet and aromatic flavor that can mimic coriander.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can add a similar color and a bit of heat to the dish.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar garlicky flavor in a pinch.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative.

• greek yogurt - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.

• cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and can be grated and drained like cucumber.

• lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor.

• dill - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to dill.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar salty flavor with a slightly different mineral profile.

• Allow the grilled patties to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the burgers soggy.
• Place the cooled patties in an airtight container. If stacking, separate each patty with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the tzatziki sauce in a separate airtight container. This will keep the sauce fresh and prevent it from making the patties soggy.
• Refrigerate the patties and tzatziki sauce for up to 3 days. Ensure the refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or below to maintain freshness.
• For longer storage, freeze the patties. Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn and maintains flavor.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness. Frozen patties can be stored for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on a stovetop over medium heat.
• Stir the tzatziki sauce well before serving, as it may separate slightly during storage. If it appears too thick, add a small amount of lemon juice or olive oil to reach the desired consistency.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the gyro burgers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover them loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the juiciness of the ground lamb patties.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the gyro burgers in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until thoroughly warmed. This method gives the patties a nice sear while keeping them moist.

• Microwave Method: Place the gyro burgers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated. This is the quickest method but may slightly alter the texture.

• Grill Reheat: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Wrap the gyro burgers in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on the grill and heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method helps retain the original grilled flavor.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the gyro burgers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method gives a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

• Sous Vide Method: If you have a sous vide machine, set it to 140°F (60°C). Place the gyro burgers in a vacuum-sealed bag and submerge them in the water bath. Heat for about 30 minutes. This method ensures the patties are evenly reheated without losing any moisture.

• Grill: Used to cook the lamb patties to perfection, imparting a smoky flavor.

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ground lamb with spices and other ingredients.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties on the grill to ensure even cooking.

• Grater: Used to grate the cucumber for the tzatziki sauce.

• Strainer: Helps to drain the excess water from the grated cucumber.

• Knife: Necessary for mincing the garlic and chopping the dill.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping and mincing ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of spices and other ingredients.

• Mixing spoon: Useful for mixing the tzatziki sauce ingredients together.

• Serving platter: Ideal for presenting the grilled patties and accompaniments.

• Bowl: Used for mixing the tzatziki sauce.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Mince garlic, grate and drain cucumber, and chop dill ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use a food processor: Quickly mix the ground lamb and spices using a food processor to save time and ensure even distribution.

Preheat the grill: Start preheating your grill while you prepare the patties to reduce waiting time.

Make tzatziki ahead: Prepare the tzatziki sauce a day before and store it in the fridge to let the flavors meld and save time on the day of cooking.