Spiced Burgers with Cucumber Yogurt
A bite of a spiced burger topped with a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce is a culinary treat that transcends the ordinary. Each bite reflects an intricate dance of flavors, showcasing the unique blend of spices and textures. This recipe for Spiced Burgers with Cucumber Yogurt brings the excitement of bold seasonings together with a cool, creamy topping, making it a standout choice for any gathering or weeknight meal.
Imagine grilling juicy burger patties that are infused with curry powder and fresh ingredients, then dressing them with a zesty cucumber yogurt sauce. The combination of these elements creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking for friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Simple yet flavorful, it meets the needs of gourmet and casual eaters alike, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
Why make this recipe
Making Spiced Burgers with Cucumber Yogurt offers an exciting twist to the traditional backyard barbecue. The far-reaching flavor profile combines warm spices that contrast beautifully with the coolness of the cucumber yogurt, ensuring a burger experience that is as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. This dish is not just about flavor; it combines health-conscious ingredients that leave you feeling satisfied without the heaviness often associated with typical burgers. Using lean ground beef and low-fat yogurt makes this recipe a smarter choice while still maintaining that savory satisfaction.
Moreover, the freshness of herbs like cilantro adds an aromatic layer that elevates the dish to a new level. This recipe also provides flexibility, allowing you to adjust spices to match your personal taste or serve it with diverse side options. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these burgers fit the occasion perfectly.
How to make Spiced Burgers with Cucumber Yogurt
To begin crafting these delightful burgers, gather fresh ingredients to ensure the best flavor. Start by preparing the cucumber yogurt sauce, which will serve as the refreshing complement to the spiced patties. Mixing chopped cucumber with tangy Greek yogurt and cilantro creates a sauce that cools the spice while adding freshness with every bite. The simple preparation allows you to focus on crafting the burgers themselves, which is equally straightforward.
The seasonings in the beef patties play a crucial role in enriching their flavor. A blend of onions, garlic, and curry powder mixed in with the lean ground beef ensures that every bite of your burger is infused with savory goodness. As you shape your patties, aim for a size that fits your buns snugly, allowing the juices to seal in during cooking. Cooking in a cast-iron skillet not only offers superb heat retention but also provides an appealing sear that enhances flavor.
Once cooked to your preferred doneness, the assembly begins, bringing together the warm patty and cool sauce in a way that’s visually appealing and inviting. Toasted sesame buns not only add crunch but also contribute flavor, complimenting the spiced beef. Whether paired with crunchy sweet potato chips or pickled vegetables, every element has a role in creating a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
- 1/2 seedless cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 1/4 pounds 90% lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 sesame hamburger buns, split and toasted
- Sweet potato chips, for serving (optional)
- Pickled okra or other pickled vegetables, for serving (optional)
Directions
- In a bowl, mix cucumber, yogurt, cilantro, ½ tsp salt, and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- In another bowl, gently mix ground beef, onion, garlic, curry powder, ½ tsp salt, and ⅛ tsp pepper until just combined.
- Form into 4 patties (about 4 inches wide and ½ inch thick).
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the patties, turning once, until cooked through (7–8 minutes for medium).
- Place burgers on buns, stir the cucumber-yogurt sauce, and spoon it on top.
- Serve (with sweet potato chips and pickled okra, if desired).
Time Breakdown
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
How to serve Spiced Burgers with Cucumber Yogurt
Serving Spiced Burgers with Cucumber Yogurt can be as simple or as elaborate as you desire. For a casual meal, plop the burgers onto a plate alongside a generous scoop of sweet potato chips for added crunch. The contrast between the tender, spiced burger and the crispiness of the chips is delightful. For those looking to create a warm and inviting dining atmosphere, consider garnishing the burgers with additional cilantro or a sprinkle of cumin for presentation.
If you opt for a more complete meal, serving the burgers with pickled vegetables can provide a bright tanginess that enhances the overall flavor profile. Providing a variety of toppings could encourage guests to customize their burgers, ranging from lettuce and tomatoes to avocado slices for added creaminess.
At your next gathering or weeknight dinner, these burgers can be served as a highlight that brings joy and satisfaction to your table.
How to store Spiced Burgers with Cucumber Yogurt
Proper storage of Spiced Burgers with Cucumber Yogurt ensures that any leftovers maintain their delicious flavor and texture. Individually wrap cooked burger patties in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cucumber yogurt sauce should be kept separately, sealed in an airtight container, and can last about two days in the fridge.
If you want to store the burgers for a longer duration, consider freezing them. Cooked patties can be frozen, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay in the freezer for about three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The cucumber yogurt sauce should not be frozen; prepare it fresh whenever you plan to enjoy the burgers.
Tips to make Spiced Burgers with Cucumber Yogurt
To enhance your Spiced Burgers, consider using fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh herbs will provide the most flavor, while finely chopping the onion helps to distribute its sweetness throughout the meat. If you’re looking to increase the spice level, adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture can kick up the heat without overwhelming the dish.
While the recipe calls for lean ground beef, experimenting with ground turkey or chicken could result in a lighter version that still captures all the essential flavors. Additionally, if you’re avoiding gluten, consider wrapping the burger patties in large lettuce leaves instead of using buns. This swap not only suits those with dietary restrictions but also adds an exciting crunch to the meal.
For an even more sophisticated flavor, try marinating the meat mixture for an hour before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate deeper into the meat. Flipping the patties only once during cooking ensures they stay juicy while achieving that perfect crust.
Variation
No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 410 kcal
• Protein: 36 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lean alternatives for a healthier option.
Q: How do I make these burgers vegetarian?
A: You can substitute the ground beef with a mixture of black beans and quinoa or chickpea patties for a delicious vegetarian version.
Q: Can I prepare the cucumber yogurt sauce in advance?
A: Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator to save prep time.
Spiced Burgers with Cucumber Yogurt
Ingredients
For the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce
- 1/2 cucumber 1/2 seedless cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
For the Spiced Burger Patties
- 1 1/4 pounds 1 1/4 pounds 90% lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 clove 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- 1 1/2 teaspoons 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
For Serving
- 4 pieces 4 sesame hamburger buns, split and toasted
- Sweet potato chips, for serving (optional)
- Pickled okra or other pickled vegetables, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce
- In a bowl, mix cucumber, yogurt, cilantro, ½ tsp salt, and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Make the Burger Patties
- In another bowl, gently mix ground beef, onion, garlic, curry powder, ½ tsp salt, and ⅛ tsp pepper until just combined.
- Form into 4 patties (about 4 inches wide and ½ inch thick).
Cook the Patties
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the patties, turning once, until cooked through (7–8 minutes for medium).
Assembly
- Place burgers on buns, stir the cucumber-yogurt sauce, and spoon it on top.
- Serve with sweet potato chips and pickled okra, if desired.
