Mediterranean Delight Sandwich
Dive into the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and succulent sandwich that combines the best of both worlds – ground beef and lamb seasoned with aromatic spices. This recipe elevates the classic Greek sandwich, offering a delightful balance of savory meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in a cozy whole wheat pita. Perfect for lunch or a snack, this wholesome meal is packed with protein and flavor that will transport your taste buds to sunny shores. Enjoy this irresistible combination that is sure to impress family and friends alike!
5-6
Servings
N/A
Calories
17
Ingredients
Ingredients
Lean ground beef
1 lb (None)
Ground lamb
1 lb (None)
Thyme
2 teaspoons (Dried)
Sumac
2 teaspoons (Dried)
Ground cumin
2 teaspoons (Dried)
Onion powder
2 teaspoons (Dried)
Ground coriander
2 teaspoons (Dried)
Granulated garlic
1/2 teaspoon (Dried)
Turmeric
1 teaspoon (Dried)
Salt
1 teaspoon (None)
Black pepper
1 teaspoon (Freshly ground)
Heavy-duty aluminum foil
1 sheet (None)
Extra large whole wheat pita bread
5-6 pieces (None)
Crumbled feta cheese
3-4 ounces (None)
Tomatoes
1-2 (Diced)
Red onion
1/2 small (Thinly sliced)
Tzatziki sauce
3/4 cup (None)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Place the ground beef and lamb in a colander set in the sink to allow any excess blood to drain away for about 30 to 45 minutes.
3
In a large bowl, combine the drained meats and thoroughly mix in all the spices and seasonings using your hands. Ensure the mixture is well integrated.
4
On a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil, shape the meat mixture into a log or roll that is approximately 6-8 inches long.
5
Wrap the meat roll tightly in the aluminum foil, twisting the ends like a candy wrapper to seal it. Use a knife to poke holes all over the roll to allow steam to escape during cooking.
6
Place the wrapped meat roll onto a drain rack set inside a baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 75-80 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C).
7
Remove the meat roll from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
8
When ready to serve, slice the meat roll into thin pieces. Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the meat slices to your liking.
9
To assemble the sandwich, warm the whole wheat pita in a skillet or oven. Fill each pita with the sliced meat, tzatziki sauce, fresh diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and crumbled feta cheese.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mediterranean Delight Sandwich?
The Mediterranean Delight Sandwich is a hearty meal featuring a seasoned blend of ground beef and lamb served in a whole wheat pita with fresh vegetables and tzatziki sauce.
What types of meat are used in this recipe?
This recipe requires 1 lb of lean ground beef and 1 lb of ground lamb.
What aromatic spices are needed for the meat seasoning?
The seasoning includes thyme, sumac, ground cumin, onion powder, ground coriander, granulated garlic, and turmeric.
How should the meat be prepared before mixing?
The ground beef and lamb should be placed in a colander for 30 to 45 minutes to allow excess blood to drain away.
What is the required oven temperature for baking the meat?
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
How do you incorporate the spices into the meat?
Combine the drained meats in a large bowl and mix thoroughly with your hands to ensure the spices are well integrated.
What shape should the meat mixture be formed into?
Shape the mixture into a log or roll approximately 6 to 8 inches long.
How should the meat roll be wrapped?
Wrap the roll tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil and twist the ends like a candy wrapper to seal it.
Why are holes poked in the aluminum foil?
Poking holes all over the roll allows steam to escape during the cooking process.
What is the total baking time for the meat?
The meat roll should bake for 75 to 80 minutes.
What is the target internal temperature for the meat roll?
The meat should reach an internal temperature of 175 degrees Fahrenheit or 80 degrees Celsius.
Is there a cooling period after baking?
Yes, the meat should cool completely and then be refrigerated overnight to allow flavors to meld.
How is the meat prepared for the sandwich assembly?
The chilled meat roll is sliced into thin pieces and then browned in a skillet over medium heat.
What type of bread is recommended?
The recipe calls for extra large whole wheat pita bread.
What vegetables are used as toppings?
The sandwich is topped with fresh diced tomatoes and thinly sliced red onions.
What kind of cheese is added to the sandwich?
The recipe uses 3 to 4 ounces of crumbled feta cheese.
What sauce is used in the Mediterranean Delight Sandwich?
Tzatziki sauce is used to provide a creamy and tangy flavor.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 5 to 6 servings.
How many total ingredients are used?
There are 17 ingredients in this recipe, including meats, spices, and garnishes.
What is the purpose of the drain rack during baking?
The drain rack set inside a baking pan allows the meat to cook evenly while letting rendered fat drip away.
How should the pita bread be warmed?
The whole wheat pita can be warmed in a skillet or in the oven just before assembly.
What spice gives the meat a citrusy, tangy note?
Sumac is the ingredient that provides a unique tangy flavor characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
Is the beef used in this recipe lean?
Yes, the recipe specifically lists lean ground beef.
Can this sandwich be served as a snack?
Yes, it is suitable for both lunch and as a protein-packed snack.
How do you ensure the meat roll stays sealed?
Twisting the ends of the heavy-duty aluminum foil like a candy wrapper ensures a tight seal.
What is the texture of the meat after browning?
Browning the thin slices in a skillet creates a succulent texture with savory, crisp edges.
How much tzatziki sauce is needed?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of tzatziki sauce.
What preparation is needed for the red onion?
The red onion should be thinly sliced before being added to the sandwich.
Is turmeric included in the seasoning mix?
Yes, one teaspoon of dried turmeric is included in the meat mixture.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, the meat must be refrigerated overnight, making it an excellent meal-prep option.