Photo by Goran Kosanovic for The Washington Post
Here, whole-grain bulgur wheat, plus cumin, garlic and herbs, are mixed with lean ground lamb to form flavor-packed, Middle-Eastern-style meat patties, which are served with a lemony three-herb sauce.
Besides adding a wonderful texture and earthy, nutty taste to the rich lamb, the bulgur also provides whole-grain nutrition and volume, so the sensible portion of meat has a healthfully satisfying presence on the plate.
You could cook these in a grill pan on the stovetop as well.
Ingredients
Prepare the grill for direct heat: If using a charcoal grill, light the charcoal or briquettes; when the briquettes are ready, distribute them on the grill. For a medium-hot fire, you should be able to hold your hand 6 inches above the coals for 6 or 7 seconds. Close the lid and open the vents about a quarter of the way. Have ready a spray water bottle for taming any flames.
Transfer half the herb mixture to a mixing bowl (leaving the other half in the food processor). Add the ground lamb, cooked bulgur, cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper to the mixing bowl. Use your clean hands to blend well and then form eight oblong patties of equal size.
Add the lemon zest and juice and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper to the herb mixture in the food processor; pulse to incorporate, then, with the motor running, drizzle in the oil and as much of the water as you need, depending on how thick you want the sauce. Transfer to a serving bowl.
Place the patties on the grill; close the lid and cook for about 3 minutes per side (for medium), until grill marks have formed.
To serve, spoon some sauce onto each plate then top with the lamb patties. Garnish with parsley.
Per serving: Calories 270; Total Fat 16g (Saturated Fat 4g); Cholesterol 55mg; Sodium 380mg; Total Carbohydrates 14g; Dietary Fiber 4g; Protein 20g; Sugars 1g
