Persian Kebab-Spiced Burgers

Name: Persian Kebab-Spiced Burgers
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 serving(s)
Ingredients: 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced; 2 tsp. olive oil, plus more for brushing; 3 tsp. distilled white vinegar, divided; 1 tsp. ground sumac, divided; Kosher salt and pepper; 1/4 c. flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped; 1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin; 1 tsp. garlic powder; 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon; 1 1/4 lb. ground lamb or beef (or a mix of both); 3 tbsp. Greek yogurt; 3 tbsp. mayonnaise; 1 small clove garlic, grated; 4 potato buns (we used Martin’s); Kosher dill pickles, for serving

A DIY spice blend instantly ups the flavor factor of your burger.

By Tina MartinezPublished: Aug 9, 2025

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burgers topped with fresh herbs and pickled onions on cutting board

Mike Garten

Yields:

4 serving(s)

Total Time:

30 mins

Cal/Serv:

517

Made from lamb or beef (or a combo of the two), these burgers were inspired by the Persian kebabs called koobideh. The key is the quick spice blend that gives the burgers a warm, aromatic flavor.

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Ingredients

1 small red onion, very thinly sliced
2 tsp. olive oil, plus more for brushing
3 tsp. distilled white vinegar, divided
1 tsp. ground sumac, divided
Kosher salt and pepper
1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 1/4 lb. ground lamb or beef (or a mix of both)
3 Tbsp. Greek yogurt
3 Tbsp. mayonnaise
1 small clove garlic, grated
4 potato buns (we used Martin’s)
Kosher dill pickles, for serving

Directions

1. Step 1Heat grill on medium. In medium bowl, toss together onion, oil, 2 teaspoon vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon sumac and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Let sit 10 minutes, then fold in parsley.
2. Step 2In small bowl, mix together cumin, garlic powder, cinnamon, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon sumac.
3. Step 3Divide meat into 4 equal portions and shape each into 1/2-inch-thick patty. Brush both sides with oil, then sprinkle both sides with spice blend and 1 teaspoon salt. Grill, covered, 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium.
4. Step 4Meanwhile, in same small bowl, whisk together yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, remaining teaspoon vinegar, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Spread on buns, then fill with patties and onion slaw. Serve with pickles.

Recipe Tip: For the best texture, try to chop the tomatoes, cucumbers and onions into the same size.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving): About 517 calories, 28 g fat (8.5 g saturated), 101 mg cholesterol, 996 mg sodium, 31 g carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, 5 g sugar (3 g added sugar), 34 g protein

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