Indian Inspired Lamb Burgers with Mint Yogurt Sauce

Who doesn’t love a good burger on the grill? It’s one of those foods that brings up fond memories of Summer fun. But hey, let’s shake things up with an international twist. I’m talking about this Indian Inspired Lamb Burgers with Mint Yogurt Sauce!

This isn’t your ordinary burger. The rich, juicy flavor of lamb mingling with exciting spices like garam masala and ginger. Then top it off with a cool, creamy sauce that’s got mint, yogurt, and cucumber. 

It’s like taking your taste buds on a vacation without leaving your backyard! Trust me, making this dish is a fun adventure that’s just as enjoyable as eating it. So, let’s get that grill fired up and ready to impress!

🍔 What makes this recipe special?

You might be thinking, “Another burger recipe?” But hold on a minute! This Indian Inspired Lamb Burger isn’t like most burgers you’ve had. It’s something genuinely unique and packed with exciting flavors.

We’re using ground lamb instead of the usual beef for our burgers. Lamb has a special, rich taste that makes these burgers stand out. What really takes these burgers to the next level, though, is a spice called garam masala. 

It’s a mix of different spices often used in Indian cooking that makes the lamb taste even better. So, with this recipe, you’re not just having a regular burger – you’re going on a fun food adventure with every bite!

The mint yogurt sauce on top cools and brings the burger together. The mint yogurt sauce, sometimes called raita sauce, adds something special to this already special burger.

Do you like cookouts, check out this BBQ Spatchcock Grilled Chicken Recipe, Grilled Chicken Shish Kabobs, this Easy Coleslaw, or this Mint Watermelon Feta Salad. No matter what you eat, make sure to treat yourself!

🐑 Ingredients

Lamb is the star, but this is a symphony of flavors. Here is what you will need. 

• Ground lamb
• Cilantro
• Garam masala
• Ground ginger
• Salt
• Pepper
• Hamburger buns
• Red onion
• Lettuce

Mint Yogurt Sauce Ingredients

Here is what you will need for the sauce

• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 5-6 mint leaves (about 3-4 g), minced
• ¼ cup shredded cucumber (35 g)
• ¼ teaspoon cumin
•  ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

See the recipe card for full quantities.

🍲 Instructions

Folks, making this burger is as fun as eating it. To start, we’re going to create our cool and tangy mint yogurt sauce. 

Just combine Greek yogurt, fresh mint, cucumber, and a dash of spices in a bowl. Give it a good mix, then pop it into the fridge to chill out.

Next up, it’s burger time! Grab your ground lamb and add in a mix of flavorful spices – think cilantro, garam masala, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mash it all together, then shape this tasty mixture into three burger patties.

Fire up your grill to medium-high and place your patties on it. Let them cook on one side for about five minutes, then flip ’em over and do the same on the other side. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F – that’s how you know they’re done to a safe temperature.

If you choose to cook your lamb burger to medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are looking for medium, cook to 150° Fahrenheit. Cook them to the temp you like, but know that the safe temp is 160° Fahrenheit.

The last step, assemble your burger masterpiece. Grab a bun, add your cooked lamb burger, and top it off with some crisp lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, and a generous dollop of that chilled mint yogurt sauce. There you have it – an Indian Inspired Lamb Burger that’s ready to wow!

🤷 Substitutions and variations

There are a few ways that this can be changed up.

• Not a fan of lamb or just can’t find it in the store? No sweat! You can swap it out with ground beef or even turkey. Just remember, the cooking times might vary a bit.
• Cilantro just not your thing? Some folks aren’t fans and that’s okay. Try using fresh parsley or mint instead. You do you!
• Got a soft spot for spicy food? Don’t be shy – add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper to your yogurt sauce. It’ll give it an extra kick that’ll make your taste buds dance!
• You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F – that’s how you know they’re done to a safe temperature.
• If you choose to cook your lamb burger to medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are looking for medium, cook to 150° Fahrenheit. Cook them to the temp you like, but know that the safe temp is 160° Fahrenheit.
• Feeling adventurous? Instead of regular hamburger buns, why not try naan bread? It’s a tasty Indian bread that’ll take your burger game to the next level.
• Why did I choose 3 burgers? Because 1 pound divides nicely into 3, ⅓ pound burgers. I think that is the right size for burgers. Want four servings? divide that bound of lamb beef into four.

Remember, folks, recipes are just a starting point. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

📦 Storage

Got some leftover burgers? Just pop them in an airtight container and they’ll stay good in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Perfect for a quick and tasty snack!

Want to enjoy these tasty burgers later? You can freeze the cooked patties for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat until hot all the way through.

As for our superstar mint yogurt sauce, it’s best fresh, but it’ll last in the fridge for up to 2 days in a covered container. Remember to give it a good stir before you use it again.

🎓 History tidbit

Did you know lamb has been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries? While many of us in the West associate Indian food with vegetarian dishes due to the country’s significant vegetarian population, meat dishes have also played an essential role in Indian cuisine. Lamb, in particular, is widely used in various regional cuisines nationwide.

And the use of spices? Well, India has been at the heart of the spice trade for thousands of years. The spices used in your lamb burgers, like garam masala and ginger, have a history dating back to ancient times. In fact, the art of blending spices into mixes like garam masala is a skill passed down through generations.

As you do in your mint yogurt sauce, the tradition of mixing yogurt with herbs and spices also comes from India. Raita, a traditional Indian condiment made with yogurt, vegetables, and spices, serves as a cooling balance to spicy dishes.

❓ FAQ

📝 Tips and tricks

• A charcoal grill is great for this recipe, as the flavor really lends itself to the lamb.
• I have made this with an 80/20 ground burger with good outcome
• If you don’t like an ingredient, omit it!
• When shopping, choose the fattier lamb
• If you choose to cook your lamb burger to medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are looking for medium, cook to 150° Fahrenheit. Cook them to the temp you like, but know that the safe temp is 160° Fahrenheit.

🛠 Products used in this recipe

• Weber Grill 
• Mixing bowls
• Meat Thermometer
• Grilling Spatula

😋 Did you make this recipe?

That is awesome, and thank you so much for giving this Indian Inspired Lamb Burgers with Mint Yogurt Sauce recipe a try. If you could leave a rating in the comment area below, it would be greatly appreciated. This lets me know how I am doing and also helps others decide if they want to make this recipe. Most of all, thanks for visiting Ramshackle Pantry.