Vegetarian Lamb Yiros

Reimagine classic Mediterranean flavors with this irresistible Vegetarian Lamb Yiros, a plant-based twist on a beloved Greek street food. Tender strips of marinated tofu are infused with a rich blend of olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, and paprika, then pan-seared to golden perfection for a savory, smoky essence that rivals traditional lamb. Tucked into warm, pillowy pita bread and layered with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and thinly sliced red onion, this vibrant dish is completed with a creamy homemade yogurt sauce featuring tangy Greek yogurt, refreshing grated cucumber, and aromatic mint. Ready in just 30 minutes (plus marinating time), this vegetarian yiros is an easy, satisfying meal the whole family will love. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend feasts, this recipe brings bold flavor with a plant-based twist, ideal for vegetarian or flexitarian diets.

Nutriscore Rating: 80/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 small cucumber, grated
• 2 tablespoons mint leaves, chopped
• 4 pieces pita bread
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded
• 1 medium tomato, sliced
• 0.5 red onion, thinly sliced

Directions

Step 1

Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel, placing it on a plate, and then place a heavy object on top. Allow it to press for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2

While the tofu is pressing, prepare the marinade. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 3

Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into strips resembling traditional lamb yiros slices.

Step 4

Place the tofu strips into a dish or plastic bag and pour the marinade over them, turning to coat each strip thoroughly. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for better flavor.

Step 5

To make the yogurt sauce, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, and chopped mint in a bowl. Mix well and season with a pinch of salt. Set aside.

Step 6

Preheat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated tofu strips and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step 7

Warm the pita breads in a dry pan or oven. Arrange them on a serving platter.

Step 8

Assemble the yiros by spreading a spoonful of yogurt sauce on each pita. Top with cooked tofu strips, shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and red onion.

Step 9

Roll or fold the pita around the filling, and serve immediately. Enjoy your Vegetarian Lamb Yiros with extra yogurt sauce on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1268.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1453.6

Total Fat 57.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 10.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.3g
Cholesterol 24.5mg	0%
Sodium 2330.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 167.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 24.0g	0%
Total Sugars 27.6g
Protein 93.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1066.9mg	0%
Iron 17.3mg	0%
Potassium 2101.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 33.0%

Protein: 24.0%

Carbs: 43.0%