Gourmet Ostrich Burger Recipe
A lean and flavorful alternative to traditional beef burgers
KEY INFO
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Servings: 4-6
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Dietary: High protein, Low fat
– Cost: Premium
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
– Meat thermometer (essential)
– Mixing bowl
– Cutting board and knife
– Grill or heavy-bottomed skillet
– Spatula
Alternative: Use an oven-safe pan if no grill available
INGREDIENTS
For the Patties:
– 1 kg (2 lbs) ground ostrich meat
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped (120g/4oz)
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 green pepper, finely diced (optional)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp ground coriander (optional)
– 2 tbsp chutney (optional)
For Serving:
– 4-6 burger buns
– Butter for buns
– Preferred toppings (lettuce, tomato, cheese)
METHOD
1. Combine ground ostrich meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, and seasonings in a large bowl
Mix gently – overworking will make dense patties
2. Form mixture into 4-6 equal patties
Make them slightly larger than your buns as they’ll shrink during cooking
3. Heat grill or pan to medium-high (400°F/200°C)
4. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side
Internal temperature should reach 150°F/65°C for rare or 160°F/71°C for medium
5. Rest patties for 5 minutes before serving
CRUCIAL TIPS
– Don’t press patties while cooking – this releases precious juices
– Use thermometer to check doneness – color isn’t a reliable indicator with ostrich meat
– Keep patties relatively thin (about 3/4 inch) for even cooking
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage:
– Raw patties: 24 hours in fridge
– Cooked patties: 3 days refrigerated
– Freeze uncooked patties: Up to 3 months
Variations:
– Add dark opal basil for unique flavor
– Top with monkey gland sauce or tzatziki
– Try caramelized onions and melted cheese
Common Mistakes:
– Overcooking (leads to dry patties)
– Overmixing the meat
– Not letting meat rest after cooking
Remember: Ostrich meat is incredibly lean, so it cooks faster than beef. Keep a close eye on temperature to avoid drying out these premium patties.
Enjoy your homemade ostrich burger – a healthier, more sustainable alternative to traditional beef burgers!
