Recipe: Lamb Burgers
Description: Rich, meaty ground lamb gets a flavorful boost from cumin, oregano, and a hint of cinnamon in these lamb burgers topped with creamy feta sauce.
Ingredients: [{"text": "2 lb. ground lamb"}, {"text": "2 garlic cloves, grated"}, {"text": "2 1/2 tsp. salt"}, {"text": "2 tsp. cumin"}, {"text": "2 tsp. smoked paprika"}, {"text": "2 tsp. dried oregano"}, {"text": "1 tsp. ground black pepper"}, {"text": "1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon"}, {"text": "1/4 c. olive oil, divided"}, {"text": "1/2 c. whole milk Greek yogurt"}, {"text": "1/4 c. grated peeled cucumber, squeezed dry"}, {"text": "1/4 c. crumbled feta cheese"}, {"text": "2 tbsp. chopped fresh mint"}, {"text": "1/4 tsp. salt (optional)"}, {"text": "4 hamburger buns"}, {"text": "4 tomato slices"}, {"text": "2 c. arugula"}, {"text": "1/4 red onion, thinly sliced"}, {"text": "4 pepperoncini peppers"}, {"text": "4 cubes feta cheese"}, {"text": "4 kalamata olives"}]
Instructions: For the burgers: Combine the ground lamb, garlic, salt, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cinnamon, pepper, and 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large bowl. Gently mix the lamb mixture to thoroughly combine with the seasoning. Divide the mixture into 4 even portions, about 8 ounces each. Pat each portion into a ball (but not too tightly), then press into 1-inch thick patties.
To cook on the stovetop: Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and swirl to coat the pan. Place the patties in the skillet and let cook for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and crusty. Flip and cook the other side until the internal temperature of the burger reaches 135˚ (for medium doneness), about 3 more minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes.
To cook on the grill: Preheat the grill over medium-high heat, 400 to 425˚. Oil the grill grates. Place the patties on the grill over direct heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, covered, or until the internal temperature reads 135˚ (for medium doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes.
For the feta sauce: While burgers rest, stir together the yogurt, cucumber, feta, and mint in a small bowl. Taste, and season with salt if you like.
To assemble: spoon a tablespoon of the feta sauce on each bottom bun. Add arugula, sliced tomato, 1 lamb patty, more feta sauce, red onion, and then the bun top. If you like, spear pepperoncini peppers, cubes of feta, and kalamata olives on 5-inch wooden skewers and add one to each assembled burger.
