Greek Lamb Souvlaki and Easy Homemade Pita

Introduction

Creating an authentic Greek meal at home can be a rewarding culinary adventure, and this recipe for Greek Lamb Souvlaki paired with Easy Homemade Pita is no exception. When I first attempted this dish, my family was immediately transported to a sunny Mediterranean taverna. The tender, marinated lamb skewers bursting with flavor paired perfectly with the soft, warm pita bread. It became an instant favorite, and now it’s a go-to meal in our household, whether for a casual dinner or a special gathering.

Ingredients

Lamb Souvlaki:

• 900g – 1kg lamb leg meat, cut into small cubes
• 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (approximately 1 lemon)
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried or fresh thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 2 small red onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 wooden skewers

Pita Bread:

• 1 cup warm water
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 ½ cups flour, divided (plus extra for kneading)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Lamb Souvlaki:

1. Marinate the lamb:

• In a large Ziploc bag, combine lamb, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the lamb.
• Refrigerate overnight, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even coating.

1. Prepare to cook:

• Take the marinated lamb out of the fridge about an hour before grilling to allow it to come to room temperature.

1. Cook the lamb:

• Thread the marinated lamb onto wooden skewers.
• Grill the skewers over coals or on a griddle pan on the stovetop, brushing lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

1. Season and serve:

• Once cooked to your desired doneness, season with salt and spritz with fresh lemon juice before serving.

Pita Bread:

1. Activate the yeast:

• In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir in ½ cup of flour. Let it sit for 15 minutes until it becomes foamy.

1. Mix the dough:

• Add salt and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the remaining flour until the dough begins to come together. Knead on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth, adding more flour if necessary.

1. Rise the dough:

• Place the kneaded dough in a clean bowl, cover with cling wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

1. Shape the pita:

• Divide the risen dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, place them on a tray, cover with a tea towel, and let them rest for 15 minutes.

1. Preheat the oven:

• Preheat the oven to the highest setting (250°C/500°F) and place a pizza stone in the middle. Alternatively, preheat a thick oven tray or cast-iron skillet.

1. Bake the pita:

• Roll each dough piece into thin rounds about 20cm (8 inches) in diameter. Place as many as you can on the preheated stone and bake for 4-5 minutes, or until they puff up. Remove the baked pita and wrap them in a clean tea towel to keep warm.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 600
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 30g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 2 hours (including marination and rising)
• Active Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the lamb souvlaki on warm pita bread.
• Add toppings such as:
• Sliced tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Red onion
• Fresh parsley
• Tzatziki sauce
• Accompany with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables.

Additional Tips

1. Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the lamb for at least 6 hours or overnight.
2. Skewer Safety: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning on the grill.
3. Pita Bread: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
4. Grilling Alternative: If grilling is not an option, broiling in the oven works well for the souvlaki.
5. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices like rosemary or coriander for the marinade.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the lamb with marinated tofu or halloumi cheese for a vegetarian version.
• Spiced Pita: Add herbs or spices like za’atar to the pita dough for extra flavor.
• Sauce Choices: Try different sauces like harissa or garlic yogurt for serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing Greek beer.
• Serve with a side of hummus and olives for a Mediterranean feast.
• Incorporate into a meal prep routine by making extra souvlaki and pita for quick lunches.

Freezing and Storage

• Lamb Souvlaki: Cooked souvlaki can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the grill.
• Pita Bread: Pita can be frozen for up to 1 month. To reheat, place in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

• Yes, chicken or beef can be used instead of lamb.

1. How do I know when the lamb is cooked?

• Use a meat thermometer; lamb should reach an internal temperature of 60°C (140°F) for medium-rare.

1. What if I don’t have a pizza stone?

• A heavy baking tray or cast-iron skillet works well too.

1. Can I make the pita dough in advance?

• Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after kneading and use it within 24 hours.

1. Is there a gluten-free option for pita?

• Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend for the pita dough.

1. How long can I marinate the lamb?

• Marinate for up to 24 hours for the best flavor.

1. What is the best way to serve souvlaki?

• Serve in pita wraps with fresh vegetables and sauces.

1. Can I bake the pita bread instead of cooking on a stovetop?

• Yes, baking is recommended for authentic puffiness.

1. What can I substitute for olive oil?

• Any neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, can be used.

1. How should I store leftover souvlaki?

• Keep in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Greek Lamb Souvlaki and Easy Homemade Pita is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean into your home. The combination of marinated lamb cooked to perfection and soft, fluffy pita creates a dish that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this recipe is versatile, delicious, and sure to become a cherished favorite. Enjoy every bite and share the joy of cooking with your loved ones!

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