Caribbean-style Gyros

Ingredients

While the original Greek Gyros is typically made with lamb or beef, this Caribbean adaptation replaces the meat with jerk-spiced chicken or shrimp. The traditional tzatziki sauce is substituted with a refreshing mango salsa, adding a tropical flair to the dish. The gyros are also served with plantain chips instead of pita bread, giving it a unique Caribbean twist. We alse have the original recipe for Gyros, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken breast or shrimp, sliced 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken breast or shrimp, sliced
• 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 ripe mangoes, diced 4 ripe mangoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 ripe plantains, sliced into chips 4 ripe plantains, sliced into chips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 25g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken or shrimp with jerk seasoning and olive oil. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the diced mangoes, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeno pepper, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken or shrimp until cooked through and slightly charred, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. 4.
   While the meat is cooking, heat vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Fry the plantain chips until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
5. 5.
   Assemble the gyros by placing the cooked chicken or shrimp on a plate. Top with a generous amount of mango salsa and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with plantain chips on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken/Shrimp — Make sure to slice the chicken or shrimp into thin, even pieces for even cooking.
• Mangoes — Choose ripe mangoes for the salsa to ensure a sweet and juicy flavor.
• Plantains — Look for ripe plantains with black spots on the skin for the best flavor and texture.
• Jerk seasoning — Adjust the amount of jerk seasoning according to your spice preference.
• Cilantro — If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder herb flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes to the mango salsa.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno pepper before mincing.
• To make the plantain chips extra crispy, soak the sliced plantains in cold water for 10 minutes before frying.
• Experiment with different tropical fruits in the salsa, such as pineapple or papaya, to add more Caribbean flavors.
• Serve the gyros with a side of Caribbean-style coleslaw for a refreshing and crunchy accompaniment.

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean-style Gyros on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro. Accompany it with a side of plantain chips and a bowl of extra mango salsa for dipping. This vibrant and flavorful dish is perfect for a tropical-themed gathering or a casual weeknight dinner.

Presentation advice

Arrange the gyros neatly on the platter, with the mango salsa drizzled over the top. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro on the salsa for a pop of color. Place the plantain chips in a separate bowl or on the side of the platter for easy snacking. Serve with a tropical-inspired cocktail or a refreshing fruit punch to complete the Caribbean experience.