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Moroccan Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce

Moroccan Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce

These Moroccan Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce offer a bold, exotic flavor experience featuring juicy, spiced lamb patties infused with traditional Moroccan seasonings. Paired with a creamy, refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, and garlic, this dish balances warmth and coolness in every bite, perfect for an exciting Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Lamb Patties

  • 1 lb ground lamb (with some fat content)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped
  • Pinch of salt

Additional

  • 4 burger buns (soft, toasted)
  • Fresh greens (arugula or lettuce) for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Lamb Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb with minced garlic, finely chopped onion, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, chopped parsley, and chopped mint. Season generously with salt and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients until evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix to maintain tenderness.
  2. Shape the Patties: Divide the lamb mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a round patty about the size of your burger buns. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to ensure even cooking and prevent puffing up.
  3. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: While the patties rest, grate the cucumber and gently press out excess moisture using a paper towel. In a separate bowl, mix the drained cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill or mint, and a pinch of salt. Refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve to let the flavors meld.
  4. Cook the Burgers: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the lamb patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Avoid pressing down on the patties to keep them juicy.
  5. Assemble the Burgers: Lightly toast the burger buns. Spread a generous layer of tzatziki sauce on the bottom bun, add the warm lamb patty, and top with fresh greens such as arugula or lettuce. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Spices: Fresh ground spices provide the best flavor and aroma.
  • Don’t Overmix the Meat: Overmixing leads to dense patties; handle the mixture gently.
  • Rest Patties Before Cooking: Chill patties for 10-15 minutes to help them hold together while cooking.
  • Drain Cucumber Well: Properly draining the cucumber prevents watery tzatziki sauce.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the lamb is cooked safely yet remains juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Moroccan Lamb Burgers, Tzatziki Sauce, Mediterranean Burgers, Spiced Lamb Patties, Lamb Burger Recipe