Turkish Lamb Pita Burgers

Directions

Combine bulgur and water in a small bowl; let stand until the water is absorbed and the bulgur is tender, 20 to 30 minutes.

Drain any excess liquid.

Meanwhile, heat coriander and cumin seeds in a small skillet over medium heat until they begin to pop and are fragrant and lightly toasted, about 2 minutes.

Scrape into a small bowl to cool, then crush in a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

Combine 2 teaspoons of the spice mixture with yogurt, scallion greens, 2 tablespoons parsley, mint, oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar and ½ teaspoon pepper in a small bowl.

Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Combine tomato, red onion and oil in another small bowl.

Preheat broiler (see Grilling Variation).

Coat a broiler pan with cooking spray.

Place the reserved bulgur, the remaining spice mixture, the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley and the remaining 1 teaspoon pepper in a large bowl.

Add lamb, turkey, yellow onion, egg, garlic, cayenne, salt, allspice and cinnamon.

Gently combine, without overmixing, until evenly incorporated.

Form into 12 equal balls, then form each into an oval patty about ½ inch thick.

Place the patties on the prepared broiler pan.

Broil, turning once, until browned and an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center registers 165°F, 8 to 10 minutes total.

Slice open the warmed pita breads.

Fill with 2 burgers, about ⅓ cup tomato mixture and 2 generous tablespoons yogurt sauce each.

Grilling Variation:

To grill the lamb patties, preheat a grill to medium-high. Oil the grill rack.

Grill the patties, turning once, until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center registers 165°F, 8 to 10 minutes total.