Burger Variations

I saw that the Dining section of Wednesday's Times had an interesting article about non traditional burgers. They were made with pork and lamb but you can use other meats as well. You can stray away from 100 per cent beef and even try chicken or turkey. You can still have a traditional barbecue but with a new twist.

Using different meats also means trying different tastes. You can go with a lamb based patty but you can use spices like cumin and coriander for a Middle Eastern spin. Pork burgers can take on an Asian flair with the addition of soy sauce and scallions. Or you can turn them completely around and serve them with apple sauce German style. Most people usually go with the low cal, low fat turkey burgers which can be dry. Look for the alternative, emu . Yes,you read right emu, that big ostrich like bird.Unfortunately it is expensive with ground emu meat selling for 32 bucks a pound.

What to serve with exotic burgers? Try a potato salad made with roasted yams instead of Yukon Gold ones. Or if you're making pork burgers then go with a cross between kim chee and coleslaw, a spicier cabbage salad with a lot of crunch. Lamb burgers can be accompanied by veggie kabobs and a cold rice salad.

This Memorial Day think outside the bun.Try different meats to spice up your barbecue. It'll make your party not just memorable but tasty!!!!