This spicy cumin lamb burger is a true culinary masterpiece. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, a dish that hits all the right notes. The aromatic cumin, the tender lamb, the warm, crisp bread – it’s a combination that’s simply irresistible. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe is inspired by Xi’an Famous Foods, a New York City institution known for its bold and flavorful dishes.
The heart of this burger is the spicy cumin lamb filling. Traditionally made with boneless leg of lamb, this recipe offers flexibility. Lamb shoulder chops, pork shoulder, beef stew meat, or even ground meat can be used. The key is to let the meat serve as a canvas for the spices and cooking technique.
The first step is preparing the “daily bread,” a simple, stovetop-cooked bread that serves as the burger bun. This dense, slightly chewy bread is similar to an English muffin and provides the perfect vessel for the flavorful filling.
To make the bread, combine flour, salt, yeast, baking powder, and water to form a dough. Knead, rest, and then roll out the dough into small circles. Cook these circles in a skillet over medium-low heat until browned and cooked through.
The lamb is sliced thinly, then coated in salt and cornstarch. The cornstarch helps to create a beautiful sear on the lamb when it’s stir-fried.
Next, the aromatics and spices are prepared. Sliced scallions, red onion, Thai chili pepper, grated garlic, and ginger form the aromatic base. The star of the spice blend is freshly ground cumin, complemented by Thai dry red chili powder (or cayenne pepper) and a pinch of MSG for umami.
The lamb is stir-fried in hot oil until browned, then the aromatics and spices are added. The mixture is cooked until fragrant and the flavors meld together.
Finally, the burger is assembled. The daily bread is sliced, filled with the spicy cumin lamb, and toasted on a griddle. While Xi’an Famous Foods typically serves the burger plain, feel free to add fresh cilantro, pickled onions, or any other toppings you desire.
This spicy cumin lamb burger is a truly satisfying meal. The complex flavors, the tender lamb, and the satisfying chew of the bread create a truly memorable dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers exceptional results. It’s a perfect weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for a weekend gathering.
