Frequently Asked Questions
What are Herbed Tarragon Turkey Burgers?
These are gourmet turkey burgers flavored with fresh tarragon, Dijon mustard, and kept moist with a bread and milk panade.
What is the secret to keeping these turkey burgers moist?
The secret is using a panade, which is a mixture of cubed sandwich bread and milk that is mashed together and mixed into the ground turkey.
How much ground turkey is required for this recipe?
You will need 1 1/4 lbs of fresh ground turkey.
What is the recommended cooking temperature for turkey burgers?
Turkey burgers should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How long should I cook the patties on each side?
Cook the patties for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side over medium heat.
What kind of bread should I use for the panade?
One slice of sandwich bread with the crust removed, cut into 1/2-inch cubes, is recommended.
Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?
While fresh tarragon is recommended for the best aroma, you can use dried, though you may need to adjust the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.
What type of mustard is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of smooth Dijon mustard.
How many burgers does this recipe make?
The mixture should be divided into four equal portions to make four burgers.
What is the suggested topping for an indulgent finish?
A spoonful of rich bearnaise sauce is suggested as an indulgent topping.
Can these burgers be grilled or fried?
Yes, they can be prepared on a preheated grill or in a frying pan over medium heat.
How thick should the turkey patties be shaped?
The patties should be shaped to be about one inch thick.
What kind of milk is best for the panade?
You can use either whole or reduced-fat milk.
Why shouldn't I overmix the turkey mixture?
Overmixing can compromise the texture of the turkey, making the burgers dense rather than light and moist.
What type of roll is recommended for serving?
Serving the burgers on a soft roll is recommended.
What greens pair well with these burgers?
Fresh leafy lettuce or mixed greens are perfect pairings for these burgers.
How much fresh tarragon is needed?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh tarragon.
What seasonings are added to the meat?
The meat is seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
How do I prepare the panade?
Combine the cubed bread and milk in a bowl and mash until the milk is fully absorbed and the mixture is cohesive.
Is this recipe suitable for a barbecue?
Yes, these burgers are a standout choice for a summertime barbecue.
What flavor does tarragon add to the burgers?
Tarragon infuses the meat with a unique, slightly anise-like aroma and fresh herbal flavor.
Is this a lean meal option?
Yes, using lean ground turkey makes this a lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers.
What does 'panade' mean in cooking?
A panade is a paste made of starch and liquid used as a binder and to maintain moisture in ground meat dishes.
Can I add extra salt to the recipe?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of salt, but you can adjust 'to taste' as needed.
Should the Dijon mustard be grainy or smooth?
The recipe specifies using smooth Dijon mustard.
Are these burgers considered gourmet?
Yes, the use of tarragon, Dijon, and bearnaise sauce provides a gourmet twist on the classic burger.
Can I substitute the ground turkey?
While designed for turkey, ground chicken would also work well with these specific herbs and binders.
What color should the cooked patties be?
The patties should be cooked until they reach 165°F; they will generally be opaque and browned on the outside.
Do I need to remove the bread crusts?
Yes, the recipe suggests removing the crusts from the sandwich bread before cubing.
What provides the 'zing' in the burger?
The tangy Dijon mustard provides a delightful zing to the flavor profile.