The Ultimate Turkey Burger Recipe: A UK Twist
This recipe delivers a juicy, flavourful turkey burger perfect for a summer barbecue or a mid-week meal. We've incorporated readily available UK ingredients and tips for achieving that perfect burger texture. Forget dry, tasteless turkey patties – this recipe guarantees a delicious, satisfying burger experience.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes 4 juicy turkey burgers.
- 1 lb (450g) Ground Turkey: Opt for a higher fat percentage (around 20%) for extra juiciness. Look for British-reared turkey for a quality product.
- 1/2 cup (60g) Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture. Panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter crumb, while standard breadcrumbs give a more traditional feel.
- 1/4 cup (30g) Grated Onion: Red onion adds a nice bite, but white or yellow onion work well too.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is best, but you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar in a pinch.
- 1 large Egg, lightly beaten: This helps bind the mixture.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth of flavour. Lea & Perrins is a popular UK choice.
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme: Adds an earthy, herbaceous note.
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika: For a subtle smoky flavour.
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste: Season generously!
Instructions:
- Prepare the Turkey Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the burgers tough.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty, about ½ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the centre of each patty to prevent them from bulging during cooking.
- Cook the Burgers: You have several options for cooking:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Assemble your Burgers: Once cooked, let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve on your favourite burger buns with your choice of toppings.
Top Tips for the Perfect Turkey Burger:
- Don't Overwork the Meat: Gently combine the ingredients to avoid tough burgers.
- Get the Fat Content Right: A higher fat content in the ground turkey is key to juiciness.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper!
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked turkey burgers will be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let them Rest: Allowing the burgers to rest before serving helps them retain their juices.
Serving Suggestions:
This recipe offers incredible versatility. Here are some ideas for delicious toppings:
- Classic: Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, and mustard.
- Gourmet: Mature cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, caramelised onions, and aioli.
- Spicy: Jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, chipotle mayo.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade turkey burgers! Let us know your favourite toppings in the comments below. Remember to share your burger creations on social media using #TurkeyBurgerUK #BritishBurgers.
