Greek Gyro Chili Bowl

Looking for a bold twist on traditional chili? Say hello to Gyro Chili—a fusion of Greek-inspired flavors and the hearty comfort of a classic chili. This dish combines the savory richness of ground lamb, the warmth of Mediterranean spices, and the freshness of Greek toppings like feta and cucumber. Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something unique, Gyro Chili will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Serve it up with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a side of warm pita for a meal that’s both comforting and adventurous!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground lamb (or substitute with ground beef, turkey, or a mix)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, finely diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 large red bell pepper, diced

• 1 large zucchini, diced

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth (adjust for desired thickness)

• 2 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for a hint of warmth)

• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, for topping

• Tzatziki Sauce (see below), for topping

• 1 small cucumber, diced, for garnish

Instructions

Instant Pot Greek Gyro Chili Instructions

1. Here’s how to make Greek Gyro Chili using your Instant Pot for a quick and flavorful meal! Use a crockpot if you wish...

   
   

   Instructions

   1. Sauté Aromatics:

      • Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add olive oil.

      • Once hot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.

   2. Brown the Meat:

      • Add the ground lamb (or meat of choice) to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

   3. Add Vegetables:

      • Stir in red bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for 2-3 minutes.

   4. Season:

      • Sprinkle in oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat and vegetables evenly.

   5. Deglaze the Pot:

      • Pour in 1/2 cup broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits at the bottom of the pot to prevent burning.

   6. Add Remaining Ingredients:

      • Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.

   7. Pressure Cook:

      • Lock the lid and set the valve to Sealing.

      • Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook mode for 10 minutes on high pressure.

   8. Natural Release:

      • Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure.

   9. Finish and Serve:

      • Open the lid and stir the chili. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

      • Ladle into bowls and top with Greek yogurt, cucumber, feta cheese, olives, and fresh parsley.

        
        

   Tips for Crockpot Success:

   • Follow instructions above but cook for 4 hours on high

   
   

   Enjoy your quick and flavorful Greek Gyro Chili straight from the Instant Pot!

   Serves 8

Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2% for creaminess)

• 1/2 large cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess liquid

• 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)

• 1 tsp lemon juice (or more to taste)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Optional: 1 tsp white vinegar for extra tang

Instructions

1. Prepare Cucumber: Grate the cucumber using a box grater and squeeze out the excess liquid using a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel. This prevents the tzatziki from becoming watery.

2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Taste and Adjust: Adjust salt, lemon juice, or garlic according to your preference.

4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

5. Serve: Use as a topping for your Gyro Chili, or enjoy it as a dip with fresh veggies or pita bread.

Tips:

• For a creamier texture, whisk the yogurt before mixing with the other ingredients.

• Fresh dill adds a burst of flavor, but dried dill works in a pinch.

• If you love garlic, add an extra clove for more punch!

This cool, tangy tzatziki will perfectly balance the warm, spiced flavors of your chili. Enjoy!