Lamb Burgers With Cucumber Mint Relish

Lamb Burgers with Cucumber Mint Relish

Lamb is not as commonly used in North American cooking, which is a shame. Its incredible flavour and tenderness are a real treat. Many people shy away from lamb because they don't know how to cook it. This quick recipe is a great introduction to the flavour of lamb, and will quickly become one of those go-to meals for when you have to have supper on the table in a hurry. (Recipe from Real Simple)

Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek)

1/2 cucumber, halved, seeded, and thinly sliced

1 teaspoon chopped fresh mint

kosher salt and black pepper

2 pounds ground lamb

1 shallot, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

2 tablespoons olive oil (if cooking on a stovetop)

4 rounds pita bread, sliced into pockets and toasted

Heat grill to medium-high. In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, cucumber, mint, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the lamb, shallot, garlic, thyme, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Form 4 patties about ¾ inch thick.

Grill the patties until cooked through, 5 to 6 minutes per side. (Or heat the oil in a grill pan over medium heat and cook patties, 5 to 6 minutes per side.)

Serve patties in the pita pockets with the cucumber relish.

Photo: Sang An