Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Turkey! These mouthwatering spicy lamb patties are not just a meal, but an experience that combines bold spices, tender meat, and centuries-old cooking traditions. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a curious food adventurer, this recipe promises to deliver an explosion of flavors that will make your dinner guests beg for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Turkish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground lamb, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cover the meat mixture and let it rest in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and make the meat easier to shape.
- Remove the meat mixture from the refrigerator and divide it into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into oval or oblong patties, approximately 1/2 inch thick, ensuring they are compact and will hold together during cooking.
- Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. If using a skillet, heat it over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil.
- Place the lamb patties on the hot cooking surface and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness.
- During cooking, avoid pressing down on the patties to retain their juiciness. Turn them only once to develop a nice crust and ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the patties from heat and let them rest for 3-4 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with traditional accompaniments like yogurt sauce, flatbread, or a simple salad.
Tips
- For the most tender and flavorful patties, use freshly ground lamb with a bit of fat content (around 20-25%) to ensure juiciness.
- Allow the meat mixture to rest in the refrigerator - this isn't just a step, it's a flavor-building technique that helps the spices meld and makes the meat easier to shape.
- When forming patties, wet your hands slightly to prevent the meat from sticking and help create smooth, compact shapes.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness - 160°F is the sweet spot for safely cooked lamb with maximum flavor retention.
- Let the patties rest after cooking to redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is as succulent as possible.
- For an authentic touch, serve with a cool yogurt sauce or tzatziki to balance the spicy warmth of the patties.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 90mg
