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