Spicy Mid-Eastern Lamb Patties Recipe
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 408.8 kcal
These flavorful Spicy Mid-Eastern Lamb Patties are a perfect choice for a quick and tasty meal. Combining the richness of lamb with a delightful mix of aromatic spices like cardamom, cayenne, and curry powder, these patties are not only full of bold flavors but also quick to prepare. Whether served as a main dish with vegetables, nestled inside a warm bun as a burger, or alongside garlic rice and roasted kohlrabi and carrots, they make for a versatile and satisfying meal. The addition of mushrooms and sweet peppers enhances their savory profile, making each bite a delightful experience. You can even grill these patties for an added smoky flavor and drizzle them with a little hot sauce for that extra zing!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground lamb | 1 lb |
| Egg | 1 |
| Ground cardamom | 1/2 tsp |
| Hot paprika | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground cayenne | 1/2 tsp |
| Curry powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh mushrooms, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Sweet pepper, chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Salt (optional) | 2 pinches |
| Black pepper (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Olive oil (for cooking) | 1 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 408.8 kcal |
| Total Fat | 28.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 135.7 mg |
| Sodium | 186.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 13.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Sugars | 2.9 g |
| Protein | 23.2 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Lamb Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, egg, ground cardamom, hot paprika, cayenne, curry powder, and fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should hold together but still be tender. -
Shape the Patties
Once your lamb mixture is fully mixed, divide it into four equal portions. With your hands, shape each portion into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure the patties are uniform in size to ensure even cooking. -
Brown the Patties
Heat a non-stick skillet over high heat and lightly spray it with oil. Once the pan is hot, place the patties in the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crisp. You may want to press gently on the patties with a spatula to ensure they cook evenly. -
Flip and Cook Through
After 3 minutes, turn the heat to medium, flip the patties, and continue cooking for another 3 minutes, or until the other side is golden brown and the patties are cooked through. If you prefer a bit more char, feel free to let them cook a minute longer. -
Add the Vegetables
Add the chopped mushrooms and sweet peppers around the patties in the pan. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let everything cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the vegetables are tender and the mushrooms are browned. -
Serve
Once the lamb patties are cooked and the vegetables are soft and flavorful, itโs time to serve. Enjoy the patties as they are with a side of roasted veggies or make them into a hearty burger by serving on a soft bun. Add some hot sauce for an extra kick if youโre feeling adventurous!
Tips for Perfect Patties
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Grilling Option: If you prefer grilling, these patties work wonderfully on the BBQ. Simply grill them for about 4-5 minutes per side on medium-high heat, basting with a little hot sauce or glaze during the last minute of cooking.
-
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and hot paprika to suit your preferred spice level. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the cayenne to 1/4 tsp.
-
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
Variations
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Herb and Garlic Version: If you prefer a more aromatic flavor, add minced garlic, chopped parsley, or cilantro to the lamb mixture for a fresh herbal twist.
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Zesty Lemon Tzatziki: For an even more Middle Eastern flair, serve these patties with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. Just combine plain yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, and a bit of lemon juice.
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Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian alternative, replace the lamb with chickpeas or lentils, along with similar spices for a plant-based patty.
These Spicy Mid-Eastern Lamb Patties are quick, simple, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking to serve them as a meal with veggies or pile them high on a bun for a burger-style dinner, theyโre sure to become a household favorite.
