Cranberry & Herb Turkey Burgers

This recipe, Cranberry & Herb Turkey Burgers is from Diabetic Connect.  Our usual problem with turkey burgers is the dry, chewy texture of the cooked meat.  The usual solution is to add fat, but a little sautéed onion, dried cranberries and soaked couscous work even better without larding down this healthy main course.  With sage and thyme, call it a summery answer to Thanksgiving dinner.

Cranberry & Herb Turkey Burgers Recipe

Cranberry & Herb Turkey Burgers

¼ cup plus t Tbsp. whole-wheat couscous

½ cup boiling water

2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 stalk celery, minced

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme

1 ½ tsp. chopped fresh sage

½ tsp. salt

½ tsp. ground pepper

¼ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

1 lb. 93% lean ground turkey

 

Place couscous in a large bowl.  Pour in boiling water, stir and set aside until the water is absorbed, about 5 minutes.  If grilling the burgers, preheat grill to medium-high.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.  Add onion and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.  Add celery; cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes.  Add thyme, sage, salt and pepper; cook cranberries and stir to combine.  Let cool for 5 minutes.  Add turkey and stir until combined; do not over mix.  Form the mixture into 6 patties.

To cook on the stovetop:  Coat a large nonstick skillet, preferably cast-iron, with cooking spray and set oven to medium-high heat for 2 minutes.  Add the patties, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 4 minutes.  Turn and cook on the other side for 2 minutes.  Cover and continue to cook until lightly browned but still juicy (the juices should run clear, not pink), about 4 minutes more.  (An instant-read thermometer inserted in the center should read 165 F.)

To grill:  Oil the grill rack and grill the burgers for 5 to 6 minutes per side, flipping gently to avoid breaking them.  Serve immediately.         6 patties

 

(Recipe for Cranberry & Herb Turkey Burgers came from Diabetic Connect, 2014)