Greek gyros and Turkish kebabs are two cherished Mediterranean dishes. While similar, they have some differences. Gyros originated in Greece in the 1920s while Turkish kebabs date back to the Ottoman Empire. Both dishes use lamb or beef, but kebabs usually contain chicken and fish while gyros are primarily made with pork. Kebabs are marinated in a variety of herbs and spices while gyros have a simpler marinade of salt, pepper, oregano, and lemon juice. Gyros are cooked vertically while kebabs are cooked horizontally. Gyros can be served as sandwiches or plates while kebabs are usually served skewered alongside rice, bread, and salads.
Greek Gyros vs. Turkish Kebabs: A Battle of Mediterranean Flavors
Introduction
The Mediterranean region has given us some of the most delicious dishes in the world, and gyros and kebabs are two of the most beloved dishes of the region. While both of these dishes share some similarities, they also have several differences that set them apart. In this article, we will compare and contrast Greek gyros and Turkish kebabs to help you understand which one is right for you.
History
Both Greeks and Turks have been cooking and eating meat for centuries, so it’s no surprise that both gyros and kebabs have a long and rich history. Greek gyros are said to have originated in Greece in the 1920s when street vendors began selling roasted meat in a pita bread. On the other hand, Turkish kebabs are even older and date back to the Ottoman Empire, which spanned from the 14th to the early 20th century.
Meat
When it comes to the meat used in these dishes, both gyros and kebabs are made from lamb or beef. However, traditional Turkish kebabs also include chicken and fish, while gyros are primarily made with pork. Additionally, kebabs are marinated in a variety of spices and herbs, while gyros have a simpler marinade of salt, pepper, oregano, and lemon juice.
Cooking Method
Both gyros and kebabs are cooked on a rotating spit, but the cooking method differs slightly. Gyros are cooked on a vertical spit, with the meat layered onto the spit and cooked slowly over a flame. Kebabs, on the other hand, are cooked on a horizontal skewer, with the meat usually cut into smaller pieces and grilled over charcoal.
Serving Style
The most significant difference between these two dishes is the way they are served. Gyros can be served as a sandwich, with the meat wrapped in pita bread and topped with onions, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce. Alternatively, they can be served as a plate, with the meat sliced up and served alongside vegetables, rice, and potatoes. Kebabs, on the other hand, are usually served on a skewer, with the meat and vegetables arranged on the skewer and served alongside rice, bread, and salads.
Conclusion
Both Greek gyros and Turkish kebabs are delicious dishes that offer a taste of the Mediterranean. While they have some similarities, they each have their unique histories, ingredients, cooking methods, and serving styles. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, but we hope this article has given you some insights into the differences between these two dishes.