Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Asian Chicken Burgers?
These are flavorful chicken or turkey patties inspired by Asian cuisine, featuring ginger, garlic, shiitake mushrooms, and hoisin sauce.
What type of meat can I use for these burgers?
You can use either one pound of ground chicken or ground turkey for this recipe.
Are these chicken burgers spicy?
The burgers have a balance of savory and spicy flavors, which can be adjusted by including or omitting the optional red and green chili peppers.
Do I need eggs or breadcrumbs to bind the patties?
No, these burgers are designed to be tender and juicy without binders, but you can add an egg and 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs if using very dry meat.
What kind of mushrooms are included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for four ounces of shiitake mushrooms with the stems removed and finely chopped.
How do I prepare the aromatic vegetable mixture?
Sauté onion, ginger, garlic, and optional chilies in peanut oil for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the mushrooms until they soften.
Why should I cool the vegetable mixture before adding it to the meat?
Allowing the sautéed vegetables to cool slightly ensures they do not cook the raw ground chicken prematurely when mixing.
What sauces are used to flavor the meat?
The meat is seasoned with soy sauce, rice wine or dry sherry, and hoisin sauce.
How many patties does this recipe make?
The mixture should be formed into 4 to 6 equal-sized burger patties.
What is the safe internal temperature for these burgers?
The patties should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius.
What are the recommended toppings for assembly?
Assemble with fresh lettuce, stir-fried bean sprouts, a teaspoon of soy sauce, sesame seeds, and a dollop of sour cream.
What is the purpose of adding sour cream?
A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy richness that complements the savory and spicy profile of the burger.
Can I substitute rice wine?
Yes, dry sherry is an excellent substitute for rice wine in this recipe.
What kind of oil is best for frying the patties?
Peanut oil is used for the aromatics, and any standard cooking oil can be used to fry the patties.
What are the nutritional statistics per serving?
Each serving contains 133 calories, 7g of fat, 6g of carbohydrates, and 13g of protein.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick lunch?
Yes, these burgers are ideal for a satisfying lunch or a quick weeknight meal rotation.
How long do I sauté the onions and ginger?
Sauté them for approximately 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce, a gluten-free hoisin, and serve on a gluten-free bun or lettuce wrap.
What type of bun is recommended?
The recipe suggests serving the patties on a soft bun to complement the tender texture of the chicken.
Do I need to cook the bean sprouts?
The recipe recommends using fresh stir-fried bean sprouts as a topping for added texture and flavor.
Can I use frozen ginger?
While fresh grated ginger is preferred for aromatics, frozen grated ginger can be used as a substitute.
How do I prevent the burgers from falling apart?
Ensure the ingredients are mixed thoroughly; if the mixture feels too loose, incorporate an egg and breadcrumbs for structure.
Are there any specific tags for this recipe?
Tags include asian burgers, chicken burgers, healthy lunch, stir-fried sprouts, and easy recipes.
Can I use white button mushrooms instead of shiitake?
Shiitake provides a specific umami flavor, but white button or cremini mushrooms can be used if shiitakes are unavailable.
How do I achieve a golden brown crust?
Heat the oil in a clean skillet until hot before placing the patties in, and cook for several minutes on each side.
What does hoisin sauce add to the recipe?
Hoisin sauce adds a sweet and salty depth that enhances the Asian-inspired flavor profile.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
Yes, one teaspoon of sugar is added to the meat mixture to balance the savory sauces.
Can I prepare the patties in advance?
Yes, you can form the patties and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to cook them.
What if I don't have peanut oil?
You can substitute peanut oil with any neutral high-heat oil like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 main ingredients including the meat, aromatics, sauces, and frying oil.