Name: Vegan Gyro Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 ½ tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 300 g mushrooms (portobello, oyster, or rehydrated dried mushroom mixture); 2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced; 3 tsp gyro seasoning (see notes); ¼ cup (60 ml) vegetable broth; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 3 tbsp soy sauce (gluten-free or tamari); 1 tbsp maple syrup or date syrup; 1 ½ tsp vinegar; 2-4 pita breads (depending on size); 1 small head lettuce; 2-3 tomatoes; 1 cucumber; 1 batch tzatziki (vegan); Fresh herbs; ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp sweet paprika powder; ¼ tsp dried thyme; ¼ tsp coriander powder; ¼ tsp ground black pepper; ¼ tsp ground cumin; ¼ tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp dried marjoram; ¼ tsp salt; ⅛ tsp chili flakes

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 55 reviews

There is something incredibly delightful and satisfying about a well-made gyro, especially when it’s crafted entirely from plants. This Vegan Gyro Recipe takes the beloved Greek classic and reinvents it with a juicy, flavorful mushroom-based gyro “meat,” fresh salad, and creamy tzatziki all wrapped in warm pita bread. Whether you are vegan or just looking to try something fresh and vibrant, this dish captures the heart of traditional flavors with a compassionate, wholesome twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black pan is shown in four steps of cooking on a white marbled surface. Step 1 shows small diced purple onions spread thinly across the pan with some oil. Step 2 adds a layer of various mushrooms, light to dark brown in color, mixed with the onions and topped with small pieces of chopped garlic. Step 3 shows the cooked mushrooms and onions mixed with a layer of ground spice powder, light brown with specks, scattered on top. Step 4 shows the final cooked mixture of dark brown sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic with the spices fully mixed in, being stirred by a wooden spoon. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Vegan Gyro Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful choice of ingredients. Each component plays a vital role: from the earthy mushrooms creating a meaty texture, to the blend of spices that deliver that signature gyro taste, plus crisp vegetables and luscious sauce that balance and brighten the whole dish.

1 ½ tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and adding a smooth, fruity richness.
1 medium onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth once caramelized.
300 g mushrooms: The star of the gyro, offering a tender, umami-packed base.
2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced: Adds a punch of aromatic zest.
3 tsp gyro seasoning: This homemade spice mix is essential for that classic gyro flavor.
¼ cups (60 ml) vegetable broth: Helps create a juicy, saucy mixture.
1 tbsp tomato paste: Boosts color and umami richness.
3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari: Infuses savory depth and saltiness.
1 tbsp maple syrup or date syrup: Balances flavors with a hint of sweetness.
1 ½ tsp vinegar: Brightens and lifts the flavor profile.
2-4 pita breads: The perfect soft and warm vessel to hold your gyro creation.
1 small head lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness.
2-3 tomatoes: Juicy, ripe slices bring a burst of summertime flavor.
1 cucumber: Crisp and cooling, a lovely textural contrast.
1 batch tzatziki: Creamy, tangy, and herbaceous—the perfect finishing touch.
Fresh herbs: Dill, parsley, or mint brighten the dish with herbaceous notes.

How to Make Vegan Gyro Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms and Onions

Start by dicing your onion and slicing or tearing your mushrooms into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sauté the onion and mushrooms for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onions soften and the mushrooms begin to release their juices. This step is the foundation, building savory sweetness and meaty texture that will define your gyro filling.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Gyro Seasoning

Next, toss in the finely minced garlic and gyro seasoning. Fry everything together for an additional minute, allowing those fragrant spices to toast lightly and the garlic to become wonderfully aromatic without burning. The gyro seasoning mix creates that unmistakable Greek flavor profile that makes this dish sing.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquids and Tomato Paste

Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in tomato paste to enrich the mixture’s color and taste. Then, add the soy sauce (or tamari), maple syrup, and vinegar. These ingredients meld to provide a savory, slightly sweet, and tangy glaze that keeps the vegan gyro “meat” moist and packed with complex flavor. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken and fully develop.

Step 4: Assemble the Gyros

Warm your pita breads so they become soft and pliable. Spoon a generous portion of the mushroom gyro mixture over each pita, then layer on fresh crunchy lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and crisp cucumber. Top everything with a dollop of cool, creamy tzatziki and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. Wrap or fold your pita and get ready to enjoy every satisfying bite.

How to Serve Vegan Gyro Recipe

Two wraps sit side by side on a white plate with a speckled pattern, placed on a white marbled surface. Each wrap has three visible layers: a pale golden flatbread folded into a cone shape and tied with brown paper and twine on the right side, a middle layer of fresh green lettuce leaves topped with slices of bright red tomato and light green cucumber, and a top layer of dark brown sautéed mushrooms with white dollops of creamy sauce sprinkled with small green herbs and red pepper flakes. To the upper right of the plate is a small white bowl filled with more creamy sauce that has green herbs and red flakes mixed in. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like dill or parsley not only add a pop of green but also brighten each bite with herbaceous freshness. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the assembled gyro can also enhance that vibrant, zesty contrast to the earthy mushrooms and creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

Keep the Mediterranean vibe going with sides like crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with oregano, a vibrant Greek salad, or even some smoky grilled vegetables. They complement the Vegan Gyro Recipe perfectly by balancing heartiness with fresh, light flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the vegan gyro “meat” and all the fillings deconstructed on a platter – let everyone build their own pita wrap. Alternatively, slice the assembled gyros into pinwheel bites for a party snack or appetizer. No matter the presentation, this recipe shines with playful versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the cooked mushroom gyro mixture separately from the pita and fresh salad in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps everything tasting fresh and prevents the pita from getting soggy.

Freezing

The cooked mushroom gyro mixture freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat the mushroom mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm through evenly. Avoid microwaving the pita bread to keep it from becoming chewy; instead, warm it slightly in a toaster or oven before assembling your gyro again.

FAQs

Can I use other mushrooms besides portobello?

Absolutely! This Vegan Gyro Recipe is quite flexible. Feel free to experiment with cremini, shiitake, oyster, or even a dried mushroom mix rehydrated. Each brings its own flavor and texture which can add exciting variations.

Is the gyro seasoning difficult to make at home?

Not at all! The gyro seasoning is a simple blend of common dried herbs and spices that you may already have in your pantry. It’s worth making from scratch because it brings that authentic Greek gyro flavor to your vegan dish.

What kind of pita bread works best?

Traditional soft pita breads work beautifully here, and gluten-free options are great if needed. Whether store-bought or homemade, warming the pita before serving ensures it’s soft and pliable for wrapping your delicious filling.

Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mushroom gyro mixture, the tzatziki, and chop your vegetables in advance. This makes assembling the gyros quick and easy when you’re ready to eat.

What’s the best way to enjoy leftovers?

Leftovers are delicious reheated and served the next day. Consider turning your leftover vegan gyro filling into a grain bowl with rice or quinoa and fresh veggies for a new twist.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Gyro Recipe is a wonderful way to bring the zest and heartiness of Greek flavors into your kitchen with a plant-based punch. It’s fresh, nourishing, and full of character—perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying any night of the week. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to meals.

Vegan Gyro Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need