Ingredients:
1 onion sliced
1/2 tbsp sugar maple syrup, agave or date syrup (Optional)
8 oz oyster mushrooms the gyro meat
1 splash white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice
1/2 tbsp olive oil
6 sprigs fresh thyme (leaves only)
Gyros Seasoning Mix
1 tbsp coriander
1.5 tsp cumin
1/2 Tbsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
1/2 Tbsp garlic powder
3 tsp oregano
1 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp ground cloves
1/8 tsp chili powder
Serving Suggestions:
4 Flatbreads (Pita Bread), Vegan Tzatziki Sauce, Sliced Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Red Onion or Scallions, Fresh Dill, Fries, Hummus etc…
Instructions:
Make the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl whisk together all the gyros spices until combined. Store in a spice jar until needed.
Caramelize the Onion:
Heat up a medium heavy bottom pan and cook the onion in a light drizzle of olive oil with a pinch of salt until translucent. Stir in the sugar and cover with a lid. Cook on medium low heat until nicely caramelized, checking and stirring often taking care not to burn it. Once caramelized transfer to a bowl and reserve. (You can omit the sugar of course but it helps speed up the caramelization process).
Prepare the Gyro Filling:
Meanwhile shred the oyster mushrooms into thin strips and add them to the skillet you cooked the onions in. Turn the heat up and add a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon. Stir in the fresh thyme and cook together until the mushrooms are wilted.
Stir in 3 teaspoons of the Gyro seasoning mix and continue cooking until all the moisture has evaporated stirring often so the spices don’t burn. Taste and season with sea salt and more of the spice mix to your taste.
Optional but suggested: transfer the mushroom filling to a broiler proof dish, give it a quick spray of olive oil and broil for a few minutes until the edges crisp up. Remove from heat and mix in the caramelized onions.
Preheat your pita breads in the microwave, under the broiler or in a dry skillet.
Use your hand to fold the pita into a cone and wrap some butcher paper around its bottom. Secure with kitchen twine.
Fill your pita cone with the vegan “ Gyros meat”, a few slices of cucumber, tomato and a generous drizzle of vegan Tzatziki sauce. Garnish with fresh dill and red onions if desired.
Notes:
The Tzatziki Sauce:
You wouldn’t have a gyro without tzatziki. It’s a Greek yogurt based sauce, spiced up with lots of garlic and cucumber. Make a full batch and use it to dip veggies in for the rest of the week or just make more gyros. You can use my Vegan Tzatziki Sauce!
Gyros Variations:
Swap out the mushrooms – Instead of oyster mushrooms, you could use young, unripe jackfruit, tempeh, or seitan. Actually, our Vegan Ribs, minus the BBQ sauce, would work amazing as gyro meat.
Use my Potato Flatbread instead of Pita – Don’t have pita bread on hand? No problemo, just whip up a quick batch of these vegan potato flatbreads instead.

Vegan Gyros

Embark on a culinary odyssey with our Vegan Gyros—a plant-based twist on the beloved Greek classic that takes the traditional flavors of gyros and transforms them into a compassionate and satisfying delight. This vegan rendition captures the essence of the iconic street food, featuring a flavorful and herb-infused protein, crisp vegetables, and a creamy vegan tzatziki sauce—all wrapped in warm, pillowy flatbread. As we delve into this culinary masterpiece, prepare to be transported to the bustling streets of Athens, where the aromas of Mediterranean spices mingle with the promise of a delicious and cruelty-free gyro experience.

At the heart of our Vegan Gyros is the protein element, which boasts a blend of plant-based ingredients such as seitan, tofu, or jackfruit marinated in a symphony of Mediterranean herbs and spices. This innovative concoction achieves the savory and aromatic qualities that are characteristic of traditional gyros, proving that a compassionate choice need not compromise on taste. The result is a protein-rich filling that mimics the texture and flavor profile of the original, providing a satisfying and guilt-free alternative.

Accompanying the protein is a vibrant medley of crisp, fresh vegetables. Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and lettuce create a colorful tapestry of textures and flavors, enhancing the overall sensory experience of our Vegan Gyros. This infusion of vegetables not only adds a refreshing element but also contributes to the nutritional richness of the dish, making it a well-rounded and health-conscious choice.

No gyro is complete without the crowning jewel—the tzatziki sauce. Our vegan version captures the luscious creaminess and tangy goodness of traditional tzatziki, using dairy-free yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. The sauce serves as the perfect accompaniment, imparting a cool and refreshing contrast to the savory and spiced protein. The tzatziki becomes the finishing touch that ties the entire Vegan Gyros experience together, elevating it to a level of culinary excellence.

Our Vegan Gyros are not merely a dish; they are an invitation to explore the vibrant and diverse world of plant-based cuisine. As more people embrace compassionate choices and seek alternatives to animal products, this gyro recipe stands as a beacon of culinary innovation. It showcases that a vegan lifestyle can be both satisfying and culturally rich, proving that the joy of eating extends beyond traditional boundaries.

The preparation of Vegan Gyros is not just a culinary endeavor; it’s a celebration of cultural appreciation and ethical choices. With each bite, you embark on a journey that honors the traditions of Greek cuisine while embracing the evolution of plant-based living. So, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or someone curious about exploring new flavors, our Vegan Gyros beckons you to savor the irresistible combination of Mediterranean spices, crisp vegetables, and creamy tzatziki—a symphony that transcends culinary expectations and captivates the taste buds.

Gut Health:
Plant-based diets are often associated with improved gut health due to the high fiber content from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A healthy gut microbiome is linked to better digestion and overall well-being.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Many plant-based foods have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in reducing inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is associated with various health issues, and a vegan diet may contribute to its prevention.

Sports Performance:
Contrary to the misconception that vegan diets lack protein, many successful athletes follow plant-based diets to enhance their performance. Plant-based proteins can support muscle building and recovery.

Reduced Risk of Foodborne Illnesses:
Plant-based diets eliminate the risk of foodborne illnesses associated with the consumption of undercooked or contaminated animal products.

Economic Impact:
A vegan diet can be more economical as plant-based protein sources tend to be cost-effective compared to some animal products. It may be a budget-friendly option for individuals or families.

Mindful Eating:
Adopting a vegan lifestyle often promotes mindful eating. Being more conscious of food choices and sources can lead to a healthier relationship with food and a greater appreciation for the environmental impact of dietary decisions.

Preservation of Biodiversity:
The expansion of animal agriculture often leads to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. Choosing a vegan diet supports the preservation of ecosystems and the protection of various species.

Culinary Diversity:
Veganism introduces individuals to a diverse range of cuisines and ingredients from around the world. Exploring plant-based cooking can be a culinary adventure, embracing flavors and techniques from different cultures.

Reduced Antibiotic Resistance:
The use of antibiotics in animal farming contributes to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Opting for a vegan diet can be a way to reduce the demand for such practices and promote responsible antibiotic use.

Cruelty-Free Beauty and Personal Care:
Veganism extends to beauty and personal care products. Choosing cruelty-free, vegan alternatives ensures that your lifestyle aligns with ethical choices beyond just dietary preferences.