Mediterranean Lamb Meatball Gyros with Creamy Yogurt and Fresh Mint
Enjoy a delightful twist on classic gyros with these Mediterranean-inspired lamb meatballs nestled in warm flatbread. This recipe features tender, savory meatballs made from ground lamb, aromatic spices, and sweet golden raisins, all topped with a creamy, thick Greek yogurt and fresh mint. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these gyros are not only delicious but also packed with flavor. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Lamb
1 lb (raw)
Golden Raisins
1/4 cup (chopped)
Ground Cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
Kosher Salt
1 1/2 teaspoons (to taste)
Black Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (plain or seasoned)
Large Egg
1 (beaten)
Scallions
1 bunch (sliced (white and light green parts))
Flat Bread
4 pieces (warmed)
Greek Yogurt
1/2 cup (thick, for topping)
Fresh Mint
2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
1
Position an oven rack 6 inches from the broiler and preheat the broiler.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, chopped golden raisins, ground cinnamon, 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, breadcrumbs, the beaten egg, and three-quarters of the sliced scallions. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
3
Shape the mixture into meatballs approximately the size of golf balls, ensuring they are evenly sized for even cooking.
4
Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup.
5
Broil the meatballs for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are browned and cooked through.
6
While the meatballs are broiling, prepare the flatbreads by dividing them among individual plates.
7
Once the meatballs are cooked, place them atop the flatbreads. Generously dollop with rich Greek yogurt, sprinkle with fresh mint, and garnish with the remaining sliced scallions before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What meat is used in these Mediterranean gyros?
This recipe specifically uses ground lamb to create flavorful Mediterranean meatballs.
How long does it take to cook the lamb meatballs?
The meatballs should be broiled for approximately 6 to 8 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time.
What size should the meatballs be?
The mixture should be shaped into meatballs approximately the size of golf balls for even cooking.
How should I set up my oven for this recipe?
Position an oven rack 6 inches from the broiler and preheat the broiler before cooking.
What type of bread is used for the gyros?
The recipe calls for four pieces of warmed flatbread to serve the meatballs.
What is the recommended topping for these gyros?
They are topped with thick Greek yogurt, fresh mint, and sliced scallions.
Why are golden raisins included in the meatball mixture?
Golden raisins add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory lamb and aromatic cinnamon.
Can I use regular raisins instead of golden raisins?
While golden raisins are specified for their unique flavor, regular raisins can be used as a substitute if needed.
What spices are used to season the lamb?
The meatballs are seasoned with ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and black pepper.
How do I ensure the meatballs don't fall apart?
The recipe uses breadcrumbs and a beaten egg as binding agents to keep the meatballs together.
Which part of the scallions should I use?
Use the sliced white and light green parts of the scallions.
How should the scallions be divided during cooking?
Three-quarters of the scallions are mixed into the meatballs, while the remaining quarter is used as a garnish.
Is the Greek yogurt used in the meatball mix or as a topping?
The Greek yogurt is used as a rich dollop on top of the cooked meatballs once they are placed on the flatbread.
Should the flatbread be served cold?
No, the recipe recommends warming the flatbread before assembly.
How do I prepare the mint for this recipe?
The fresh mint should be chopped and used as a garnish for the finished gyros.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of broiling them?
The recipe calls for broiling to achieve a browned exterior, but they can be baked at a high temperature if a broiler is unavailable.
What is a good side dish for these gyros?
A fresh side salad is recommended to complete the meal.
How much ground lamb do I need?
You will need 1 lb of ground lamb for this recipe.
Are these gyros considered healthy?
Yes, they are described as a healthy dinner option featuring fresh ingredients and lean protein.
How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the pan?
Arranging the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with foil helps with both sticking and easy cleanup.
What kind of salt should I use?
The recipe specifies 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt.
What is the texture of the yogurt used?
The recipe recommends using a thick Greek yogurt for the best topping consistency.
Are these gyros spicy?
No, they are savory and aromatic rather than spicy, using cinnamon and pepper for flavor.
Can I make these for a large group?
Yes, the recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
How much fresh mint is required?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh mint.
Do I need to mix the ingredients by hand?
Yes, mixing thoroughly in a large bowl ensures the spices and binders are evenly distributed.
Can I use flavored breadcrumbs?
You can use either plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your preference.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on the 4 pieces of flatbread, this recipe typically serves 4 people.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It is a Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring savory lamb, sweet raisins, and cool, creamy yogurt.
Is the egg added to the meatball mixture raw or cooked?
A raw, beaten egg is added to the meatball mixture before cooking to act as a binder.