Halal Guys Beef Gyro Recipe

If you’ve ever walked through the bustling streets of New York City, you know the Halal Guys beef gyro platter is a popular classic.

The good news is, this iconic dish isn’t too hard to copy!

You’ll be amazed at how tender and flavorful the meat turns out once you get the spices just right.

I always emphasize marinating the beef overnight for that authentic flavor to really seep in.

And let’s not forget about the magic of balancing the cool creamy white sauce with the fiery kick of the red sauce.

How to Make Halal Guys Beef Gyro Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs. Ground Beef
• 2 tsp Cumin
• 2 tsp Coriander
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Salt
• 2 cups Basmati Rice
• 4 cups Water
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 cup Yogurt for White Sauce
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 2 tbsp Mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Vinegar
• 1 tbsp Sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Combine ground beef with cumin, coriander, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt in a bowl.

Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

Step 2:

Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and let it chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes.

Chilling helps the flavors blend and the meat set for better slicing.

Step 3:

Cook basmati rice with water in a pan until it’s fluffy and fully cooked.

This should take approximately 15 minutes.

Step 4:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meat until browned on the outside.

Turn frequently to cook evenly.

Step 5:

Whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar to create the white sauce.

Serve alongside the beef gyro and rice.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Getting the Texture Right

Refrigerating the seasoned meat is crucial to achieving the right texture, allowing for easier slicing and better grilling.

Perfecting the White Sauce

To balance the white sauce, adjust the lemon juice and sugar to fit your taste, making it tangier or sweeter as preferred.

Rice Cooking Tip

Rinse your basmati rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps it stay fluffy and prevents clumping.

What to Serve with Halal Guys Beef Gyro Recipe

Classic Greek Salad

A classic Greek salad is always a refreshing side with beef gyros.

The combination of crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onions, and olives, all tossed in a light vinaigrette, pairs well with the savory gyro meat.

Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki sauce is a must-have on your table.

Its creamy, tangy flavor made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill perfectly complements the spices in the gyro.

You can even make a bigger batch to use as a dip for veggies!

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables offer a hearty side option that works beautifully with gyros.

Try roasting a medley of bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with a sprinkle of olive oil and your favorite herbs.

The caramelized flavors of these veggies are quite delicious with the beef.

Couscous Salad

Couscous salad brings a different texture and burst of flavor to your meal.

Toss cooked couscous with chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and parsley, adding a lemon dressing for zestiness.

This is a unique and tasty alternative to your usual sides.

Sweet Potato Fries

Spice things up with some sweet potato fries—an unexpected yet delicious choice.

Their natural sweetness, especially when dusted with a bit of paprika, contrasts beautifully with the savory and spicy elements of gyros.

They can even be dipped in tzatziki for extra flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options

You can make your own unique spin by trying different proteins!

For a lighter option, you might consider using chicken instead of beef.

Lamb can also work beautifully in this recipe and adds a rich flavor!

Spice Adjustments

Don’t be afraid to adjust spices to suit your taste.

If you want less heat, reduce the amount of chili powder or paprika.

You can add extra cumin or coriander for a more robust spice blend.

Sauce Tweaks

The iconic white sauce can also be modified.

If you love a tangy sauce, add a touch more lemon juice.

For a creamier texture, increase the yogurt or mayonnaise ratio.

Alternative Cooking Methods

You don’t always need a grill to cook the gyro meat.

Why not use an oven by baking the meat at 375°F until it’s juicy and tender?

If you’re short on time, an Instant Pot can cut cooking time significantly!

Rice Variations

Instead of traditional white rice, try serving with brown rice for added fiber.

Quinoa also offers a delicious, nutty alternative to classic rice.

How to Store Leftover Halal Guys Beef Gyro

Refrigeration Tips

Once you’ve finished a delicious homemade Halal Guys Beef Gyro, it’s time to think about storing leftovers safely.

Place your leftover gyro meat in an airtight container to retain its moisture and flavor.

Store it in the refrigerator as soon as possible and aim to consume it within three to four days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Guidelines

If you’re not planning to enjoy the leftovers right away, freezing is a great option.

Wrap the gyro meat tightly in foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and place it in a labeled freezer bag.

It can generally be kept in the freezer for up to three months without losing its quality.

Storing Sauces Separately

It’s crucial to store sauces like white sauce or red sauce separately from the gyro meat.

Keep these condiments in small airtight containers to preserve their distinct flavors.

Try to use them up within a similar timeframe as the meats to enjoy the best-tasting leftovers possible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Wrong Meat Selection

Choosing the right meat is key for a good beef gyro.

Stick with beef slices that have a balance of lean and fat for ideal flavor and texture.

Over-Spicing the Mixture

Spices make a huge difference, but don’t go overboard.

Too much spice can overwhelm the natural flavors of the meat, so keep a balanced mix.

Neglecting the White Sauce

Don’t skip or rush the white sauce—it’s crucial!

The creamy, tangy white sauce complements the well-spiced beef, so perfecting its flavor and consistency is important.