Imagine coming home to the most incredible aroma of perfectly seasoned, tender pork that practically melts in your mouth - that's exactly what you'll experience with these mind-blowing Slow Cooker Pork Gyros! Forget complicated cooking techniques and hours of preparation; this recipe is your ticket to an authentic Greek feast with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you're a busy home cook or a culinary enthusiast looking for an effortless meal, these gyros will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny streets of Greece.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread for serving
- Greek yogurt for topping
- Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork shoulder. Trim any excess fat from the meat to ensure it cooks evenly and reduces greasiness.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Coat the pork shoulder thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring all sides are covered. For best results, let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight if time allows.
- Once marinated, place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker. You can add a splash of water or broth to the slow cooker to keep the meat moist, but it is optional as the pork will release its own juices during cooking.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- After the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes.
- Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. You can also chop it if you prefer smaller pieces.
- To serve, warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable. Fill each pita with a generous portion of the shredded pork.
- Top the pork with a dollop of Greek yogurt and garnish with sliced cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Enjoy your Slow Cooker Pork Gyros with additional toppings of your choice, such as red onion or feta cheese, if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) is ideal for this recipe due to its marbling, which ensures tender, juicy meat after slow cooking.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While the recipe suggests a minimum 15-minute marination, letting the pork sit in the seasoning overnight will dramatically enhance the taste.
- Moisture is Key: A splash of water or broth prevents the meat from drying out, but don't overdo it - the pork will release its own juices.
- Shredding Technique: Let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking to make shredding easier and prevent burning your fingers.
- Warm Pita Hack: Briefly warming pita bread in a skillet or microwave makes them more pliable and enhances their texture.
- Customize Your Toppings: While the recipe suggests Greek yogurt, cucumbers, and tomatoes, feel free to experiment with additional toppings like red onions, feta cheese, or a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These gyros can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
