Greek Mama
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this irresistible Greek Mama recipe—a hearty, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This Greek-inspired creation combines spiced ground beef infused with cinnamon, cumin, and oregano, simmered to perfection with crushed tomatoes and fresh herbs like parsley and dill. Served on warm pita bread with a crisp butter lettuce leaf, this savory filling is elevated by a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce made with grated cucumber, creamy Greek yogurt, and a splash of zesty lemon juice. Quick and easy to prepare in just under an hour, this dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a wholesome, family-friendly meal bursting with authentic Greek flavors. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or simply craving a Mediterranean escape, the Greek Mama will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of Greece. Perfect for weeknight meals or gatherings, this recipe delivers all the elements of a classic gyro in a fresh, homemade package!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 grams ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium (diced) yellow onion
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 medium (diced) red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 0.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 400 grams (1 can) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons (chopped) fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon (chopped) fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon (or to taste) salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 medium (grated) cucumber
- 200 grams plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 4 pieces pita bread
- 4 leaves butter lettuce
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2–3 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste, cinnamon, oregano, and cumin, cooking for 1–2 minutes to release the flavors.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes to thicken. Stir occasionally.
Add chopped parsley and dill, season with salt and black pepper, and stir to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.
While the beef is cooking, prepare the tzatziki sauce: Combine the grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Mix well and chill in the refrigerator until serving.
Lightly warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or oven.
Assemble the Greek Mama dish: Place a butter lettuce leaf on each warm pita bread, spoon the spiced beef mixture on top, and finish with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
35613 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 459.2 g | 589% | |
| Saturated Fat | 43.0 g | 215% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 352 mg | 117% | |
| Sodium | 17099 mg | 743% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 7507.8 g | 2730% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2023.1 g | 7225% | |
| Total Sugars | 4697.5 g | ||
| Protein | 1466.7 g | 2933% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 27143 mg | 2088% | |
| Iron | 1020.7 mg | 5671% | |
| Potassium | 336484 mg | 7159% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
