Introduction to Indian Street Food

Indian street food is known for its diverse and vibrant flavors, with each region offering its own unique twist on traditional dishes. One such inspiration comes from the southern Indian state of Goa, where a spiced pork sausage, known as Goan sausage, is a staple.

The Inspiration Behind the Recipe

These flavor-packed burgers are a spin on a spiced pork sausage from Goa in southern India, based on the garlicky, European-style chouriço introduced by Portuguese settlers. To combat the humidity of the region and prolong the shelf life of the sausage, the meat is heavily salted and flavored with a mixture of spices and tangy vinegar.

Goan Sausage in Indian Cuisine

Goan sausage is ubiquitous in southern India, where you can find it sold at street food carts and high-end restaurants alike, sometimes baked into a bun or minced and stuffed between layers of fried naan.

Adapting Goan Sausage to Burgers

In this recipe from our cookbook “Milk Street 365: The All-Purpose Cookbook for Every Day of the Year,” we take inspiration from those burger-like sandwiches, using a combination of grated garlic, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and cayenne to give the all-pork patties deep, complex flavor and a rusty hue. Grating the garlic ensures it melts into the meat without any distracting bits. Instead of naan, we use classic hamburger buns.

Key Ingredients and Tips

Egg and panko bread crumbs help the patties keep their shape. Don’t undermix the pork mixture; be sure to combine it well so the breadcrumbs and seasonings are evenly distributed.

Recipe: Indian-Spiced Pork Burgers

By CHRISTOPHER KIMBALL for Associated Press

These burgers are especially delicious topped with yogurt, torn fresh mint leaves, and thin slices of cucumber or tomato.

Details of the Recipe

Start to finish: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup plain whole-milk yogurt, plus more to serve
5 teaspoons garam masala
5 teaspoons sweet paprika
1 tablespoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 large egg yolks
2 medium garlic cloves, finely grated
Kosher salt and ground black pepper
1 pound ground pork
2 tablespoons grapeseed or other neutral oil
4 hamburger buns, toasted

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the panko, yogurt, garam masala, paprika, cumin, cayenne, egg yolks, garlic, ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ¼ cup water. Using a fork, mash the mixture into a smooth paste. Add the pork and mix with your hands until evenly combined. Form into 4 patties, each about 4 inches in diameter, place on a large plate, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
2. In a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium, heat the oil until barely smoking. Add the burgers and cook until well browned, 7 to 8 minutes. Flip, reduce to medium-low, and continue to cook until the patties are well browned on the second sides and the centers reach 160°F, another 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a clean plate, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve on the buns with additional yogurt on the side.

Conclusion

This Indian-spiced pork burger recipe offers a unique and flavorful twist on traditional burgers, inspired by the vibrant street food of India. With its combination of spices, garlic, and tangy yogurt, it’s a dish that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Goa.

FAQs

• Q: What is Goan sausage, and how is it traditionally consumed?
  A: Goan sausage is a type of spiced pork sausage originating from Goa, India. It’s often sold at street food carts and restaurants, either baked into a bun or minced and stuffed between layers of fried naan.
• Q: Can I substitute the pork with another type of meat?
  A: While the recipe is specifically designed for pork to mimic the traditional Goan sausage, you can experiment with other meats like beef or lamb, keeping in mind that the flavor profile may vary significantly.
• Q: How do I ensure the burgers stay moist and flavorful?
  A: Mixing the pork with egg, panko breadcrumbs, and spices helps retain moisture. Also, make sure not to overcook the burgers, and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Q: Where can I find more recipes like this?
  A: For more recipes and culinary inspirations, visit Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street at 177milkstreet.com/ap.