Description
This flavorful Bhaji Burger recipe combines spiced lamb patties with crispy onion bhajis, fresh mint raita, and tangy mango chutney for a unique and delicious twist on the classic burger. Perfect for those who enjoy vibrant Indian-inspired flavors fused with a Western favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lamb Burgers
- 400g lamb mince
- 2 tbsp tandoori paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 100g plain flour
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 1 onion, halved and finely sliced
- Salt, to taste
For the Raita
- ½ cucumber
- 150g plain yogurt
- ½ small pack mint, leaves chopped
- Salt, to taste
For the Bhajis
- 100g plain flour
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 1 onion, finely sliced (included above for both burgers and bhajis)
- Salt, to taste
- 200ml cold water (approximate for batter)
- 3 tbsp sunflower oil
To Assemble
- 3 burger buns (brioche suggested), toasted
- A few lettuce leaves
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Mango chutney
Instructions
- Prepare the Lamb Burgers: In a bowl, combine the lamb mince, tandoori paste, cumin seeds, salt, garam masala, bicarbonate of soda, sliced onion, and plain flour. Use your fingers to squeeze and mix all ingredients thoroughly. Shape the mixture into three even patties and place them in the fridge to chill while you prepare the other components.
- Make the Mint Raita: Grate the cucumber finely and then press or squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. In a separate bowl, mix the drained cucumber with plain yogurt, chopped mint leaves, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and chill in the fridge until ready to serve to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Bhaji Batter: In a bowl, combine the plain flour, garam masala, bicarbonate of soda, and salt. Gradually add approximately 200ml of cold water while stirring to form a thick, smooth batter. Incorporate the sliced onion into the batter evenly.
- Cook the Onion Bhajis: Heat sunflower oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Using a spoon, drop portions of the bhaji batter into the pan, shaping them into three burger-sized rounds. Fry each side for about 3 minutes until crispy and golden brown on one side, then carefully flip and cook the other side until fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and keep warm.
- Cook the Lamb Burgers: Using a barbecue, griddle, or frying pan, cook the lamb patties to your desired doneness, ensuring they are cooked through. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side on medium-high heat.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast the burger buns lightly. On the base of each bun, place a few lettuce leaves followed by a cooked lamb burger. Add a generous spoonful of mint raita on top, then place a crispy onion bhaji and some thinly sliced red onion. Cover with the bun top and serve immediately with mango chutney on the side.
Notes
- Ensure the lamb patties are chilled before cooking to help them hold their shape better during grilling or frying.
- For a spicier burger, add extra tandoori paste or garam masala to the lamb mixture.
- You can prepare the raita and bhaji batter ahead of time to save preparation time on the day of cooking.
- Use brioche buns or any soft burger buns for the best texture and flavor balance.
- Drain cucumber thoroughly for raita to avoid a watery sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Indian Fusion
Keywords: Bhaji Burger, lamb burger, onion bhaji, tandoori lamb, Indian burger, spicy lamb patties, mint raita, Indian street food, fusion burger
