Zuf Burger

Ingredients

The original Algerian Zuf is typically a stew made with lamb or beef, cooked with a variety of spices and vegetables. In this adapted recipe, we transform the traditional Zuf into a burger by shaping the seasoned meat into a patty and serving it on a bun. This adaptation allows for a more convenient and handheld dining experience, while still capturing the essence of the Algerian flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Zuf, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 burger buns 4 burger buns
• 1 large tomato, sliced 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• Lettuce leaves for garnish Lettuce leaves for garnish
• Ketchup and mayonnaise for serving Ketchup and mayonnaise for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cumin, paprika, coriander, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed.
2. 2.
   Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
3. 3.
   Preheat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
4. 4.
   While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns.
5. 5.
   Assemble the burgers by placing a cooked patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top with tomato slices, onion slices, and lettuce leaves.
6. 6.
   Spread ketchup and mayonnaise on the top half of the buns.
7. 7.
   Place the top bun on the assembled ingredients to complete the burgers.
8. 8.
   Serve the Zuf Burgers hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. Make sure to handle the meat gently when shaping the patties to avoid overworking it, resulting in a tougher texture.
• Cumin — Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them will enhance their flavor. Simply heat a dry skillet over medium heat, add the cumin seeds, and toast for a few minutes until fragrant. Then grind them into a powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the beef mixture.
• Experiment with different types of buns, such as sesame seed buns or whole wheat buns, to add variety to your Zuf Burgers.
• If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before using them as a topping.
• Customize your Zuf Burger by adding your favorite condiments, such as pickles or hot sauce.
• If you don't have a grill or skillet, you can also cook the patties in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for approximately 15-20 minutes.

Serving advice

Serve the Zuf Burgers with a side of crispy French fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They are perfect for casual gatherings or as a delicious weeknight dinner option.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of your Zuf Burgers, you can skewer a pickle slice and a cherry tomato onto a toothpick and insert it into the top of each burger. This adds a touch of color and makes them visually appealing.