Mediterranean Mélange Burger Recipe

Mediterranean Mélange Burger Recipe

The “Mediterranean Mélange Burger” is a flavorful burger inspired by the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Here’s how to make this delicious burger:

Ingredients:

For the Burger Patties:

• 1 pound ground lamb or beef (you can also use a mix of both)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or mint for a variation)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Assembling:

• 4 hamburger buns (preferably whole wheat or Mediterranean-style)
• Sliced red onion
• Sliced tomato
• Sliced cucumber
• Sliced Kalamata olives
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh lettuce leaves
• Olive oil for drizzling
• Hummus (optional)
• Harissa or hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions:

    Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

1. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and chopped dill.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Refrigerate the tzatziki sauce until you’re ready to use it.

    Shape and Season the Burger Patties:

1. Divide the ground lamb or beef into four equal portions and shape them into burger patties.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, and ground cinnamon (if using).
3. Season both sides of each patty with salt and black pepper, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the patties.

    Cook the Burger Patties:

1. Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Grill or cook the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium doneness, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

    Assemble the Mediterranean Mélange Burger:

1. While the patties are cooking, prepare the other ingredients.
2. Slice the hamburger buns in half.
3. Spread a dollop of tzatziki sauce on the bottom bun.
4. Place a lettuce leaf on top of the sauce.
5. Add a cooked burger patty on the bun.
6. Top the patty with sliced red onion, tomato slices, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
7. Optionally, drizzle a little olive oil over the toppings for extra flavor.
8. Spread hummus on the top bun if desired for extra creaminess.
9. Finish with the top bun.

    Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your Mediterranean Mélange Burgers immediately while they are hot and bursting with the flavors of the Mediterranean.

These burgers are a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors with a hint of spice and creaminess from the tzatziki sauce.

Customize your toppings to suit your taste, and enjoy your Mediterranean Mélange Burger!