Spiced Lamb Burger with Fennel Cucumber Slaw

(3)
"This mouthwatering Spiced Lamb Burger is heavily seasoned with all my favorite Mediterranean spices. It is accompanied by a fennel cucumber and celery slaw. And, instead of mayonnaise I use a combination of Greek yogurt and sweet red pepper & graviera cheese spread."
-- @spoonabilities

Recipe Intro From spoonabilities

This Mediterrean-inspired lamb burger is perfectly spiced and served with a tangy fennel slaw and cheesy red pepper spread. You’ll be adding this to your grilling rotation all summer long!

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  • Recipe Card
Prep time 20mins
Cook time 10mins
Serves or Makes: 4

Recipe Card

For the Fennel Cucumber Slaw

ingredients

  • 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 bulb fennel, thinly sliced
  • 2 small cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fennel fronds, chopped
  • 1 shallot, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese Spread

ingredients

  • 2 roasted red peppers
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt and pepper, to taste

For the Burgers

ingredients

  • 1 pound ground lamb
  • 2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked chili flakes, crushed with a mortar and pestle
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon, zested
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 each kaiser rolls, ciabatta rolls or burger buns (substitute gluten-free bun)

For the Fennel Cucumber Slaw

Method

  • Step 1

    In a medium bowl, toss the celery, fennel, cucumber, fennel fronds, shallots, lemon juice, fresh mint and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.

For the Cheese Spread

  • Step 1

    Add all the ingredients in the food processor for a chunky but smooth texture. Remove from the food processor and reserve.

For the Burgers and Assembly

  • Step 1

    In a small bowl, combine the spices: oregano, coriander, crushed smoked chili flakes, lemon zest, salt and pepper.

  • Step 2

    In a large bowl, add the ground lamb and the spice mix. Gently combine.

  • Step 3

    Form four (4-ounce) patties, each around 3/4” thick and 4” round. Press a dimple in the center to prevent the patties from getting taller while they cook. Put the patties uncovered in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

  • Step 4

    Heat the electric grill at medium-high heat (400°F) then reduce to 350°F. Cook lamb patties until browned, 5 minutes per side for medium. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 135°F degrees.

  • Step 5

    Transfer patties to a plate and let rest 10 minutes.

  • Step 6

    For assembly, generously spread the cheese spread mixture on both buns and build each burger first with the lamb patty, followed by the slaw and top with the other bun.

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