Chicken Burgers with Satay Sauce and Spicy Cucumber Relish

Indonesian Chicken Burger with Satay Sauce and Spicy Cucumber Relish Recipe

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the juicy goodness of ground chicken with the bold flavors of peanut butter, cilantro, and mint. The satay sauce adds a creamy and nutty element, while the spicy cucumber relish provides a refreshing and tangy contrast. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a fun and casual dinner party.

History

Chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish is a modern twist on traditional satay dishes, which originated in Indonesia and Malaysia. Satay is typically made with skewered and grilled meat, served with a peanut sauce and a side of cucumber relish. This recipe takes those classic flavors and transforms them into a handheld burger format, making it a convenient and delicious option for any occasion.

Ingredients

4 toasted hamburger buns with sesame seeds
4 large flour tortillas (wrap size)

For the Burgers

2 tbsp peanut butter
2 tsp brown sugar
2 tsp hot pepper sauce (I like tabasco)
0.25 cup chicken broth
1 lb (454 g) ground chicken
1 tbsp minced garlic
0.5 cup chopped cilantro
0.25 cup chopped mint
0.5 tsp salt

For the Satay Sauce

0.25 cup chunky peanut butter
0.25 cup chicken broth
2 tsp brown sugar
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp salt

For the Spicy cucumber Relish

0.33 cup rice vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
0.5-1 tsp red pepper flakes
0.25 tsp salt

How to prepare

Prepare the cucumber relish by dissolving sugar in vinegar.
Add the remaining ingredients and stir well.
Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for at least half an hour.
Prepare the satay sauce by mixing all the ingredients until smooth; set it aside.
To prepare the burgers, whisk together peanut butter with Tabasco and chicken broth until blended.
Check the ground chicken to make sure it isn't too wet; if it is, blot it with paper towels.
In another bowl, stir the chicken with garlic, cilantro, mint, and salt, squeezing the mixture with your hands to incorporate the ingredients.
Stir the peanut butter mixture into the chicken mixture and blend until smooth.
Form the mixture into four thick patties.
Cook the patties on the grill or in a skillet for about 4 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
Serve the burgers on either buns or warmed flour tortillas, with the satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or beef for the ground chicken to change up the flavor and texture of the burgers.
Add chopped peanuts or cashews to the satay sauce for extra crunch and nuttiness.
Use different herbs and spices in the burger mixture, such as basil, lemongrass, or ginger, to create unique and exciting flavor profiles.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to blot the ground chicken with paper towels to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help the burgers hold their shape and cook evenly.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the burgers are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving.

- For a smokier flavor, grill the burgers over charcoal or wood chips instead of cooking them in a skillet.

- Customize the level of spiciness in the cucumber relish by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish on toasted sesame seed buns or large tortillas for a fun and interactive meal. Pair them with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Grill the burgers over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Alternatively, cook them in a skillet on the stovetop for the same amount of time. Make sure to monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure that the burgers are fully cooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute for peanut butter in the burgers and satay sauce.

- Replace the ground chicken with ground pork, lamb, or tofu for a different protein option.

- Swap out the cucumber for pickled radishes, carrots, or onions in the spicy relish for a unique twist on the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the cucumber relish and satay sauce in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Form the burger patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This will help to save time and streamline the cooking process when you are ready to assemble and serve the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish on a platter with a garnish of fresh cilantro or mint leaves for a vibrant and appetizing presentation. Serve them with a side of lime wedges for squeezing over the burgers just before eating.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish with a cold and refreshing beverage, such as an iced tea, lemonade, or light beer. For a more indulgent option, serve them with a glass of chilled white wine or a fruity cocktail to complement the bold flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the burgers in the microwave or oven until warmed through, and serve them with fresh toppings and condiments to revive their flavors.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish contains approximately 400 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal option that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the tortillas and sugar in the satay sauce and cucumber relish.

Fats

Each serving of chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish contains approximately 20 grams of fat. The main sources of fat in this dish are the peanut butter in the burgers and satay sauce, as well as the sesame seeds and oil used for cooking.

Proteins

Each serving of chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish contains approximately 25 grams of protein. The ground chicken is the primary source of protein in this dish, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts, sesame seeds, and soy (from the tabasco sauce), which are common allergens. It is important to check for any food allergies or sensitivities before preparing and serving this dish.

Summary

Chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish are a well-rounded meal option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. This dish is flavorful, satisfying, and nutritious, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and wholesome meal.

Summary

Chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish are a delicious and satisfying meal option that combines the bold flavors of peanut butter, cilantro, and mint with the juicy goodness of ground chicken. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized with different ingredients and variations to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious dish for a fun and casual dining experience with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Martha for lunch. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most amazing aroma. Martha was busy at the stove, flipping burgers and stirring a pot of satay sauce. I couldn't help but ask her what she was making.

Martha smiled and said, "Oh, just a little something I picked up on my travels. Chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish. It's a family favorite!"

I was immediately intrigued. Martha had traveled all over the world and had picked up recipes from every corner of the globe. I knew that whatever she was making was going to be delicious.

As I sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the chicken burger. It was juicy and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice. The satay sauce was creamy and rich, with a hint of sweetness. And the spicy cucumber relish added a refreshing crunch to every bite. I was in culinary heaven.

After lunch, I begged Martha for the recipe. She laughed and said, "Of course, my dear! I'll write it down for you. But I must warn you, it's a bit of a process. There are a lot of ingredients and steps involved. But trust me, it's worth it!"

And so, Martha sat me down at her kitchen table and walked me through the recipe step by step. She told me about how she had learned to make it from a street vendor in Thailand, who had shared his family recipe with her after she complimented him on his cooking. She had adapted the recipe over the years, adding her own twists and tweaks to make it her own.

I listened intently as Martha explained how to marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and spices. She showed me how to make the satay sauce by simmering peanut butter, coconut milk, and chili paste until it was thick and creamy. And she shared her secret for making the spicy cucumber relish – a combination of thinly sliced cucumbers, red onion, vinegar, and sugar.

As I left Martha's house that day, I was filled with inspiration. I couldn't wait to try making the recipe for myself. I gathered all the ingredients and spent hours in my own kitchen, following Martha's instructions to the letter.

The smell of the chicken burgers sizzling on the grill, the aroma of the satay sauce bubbling on the stove, and the tangy scent of the spicy cucumber relish filled my kitchen. I couldn't believe that I had actually made something so delicious and complex.

When I finally sat down to eat, I closed my eyes and took a bite of the chicken burger. It was just as good as Martha's, if not better. The flavors danced on my tongue – the savory chicken, the creamy satay sauce, the zesty relish. I felt a rush of pride and joy knowing that I had created something so wonderful.

From that day on, chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family dinners, potlucks with friends, and even for special occasions. Each time I made it, I thought of Martha and the day she had shared her recipe with me.

Now, as I sit down to write this story, I can't help but smile. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am grateful for all the recipes and techniques I have learned over the years. But there is something special about this recipe – something that fills me with nostalgia and warmth.

I hope that one day, someone will come into my kitchen and ask me for the recipe for chicken burgers with satay sauce and spicy cucumber relish. And I will gladly sit them down at my table, just like Martha did for me, and share the story behind this delicious dish. Because after all, recipes are meant to be shared, cherished, and passed down through generations. And I can think of no better way to honor the memory of my dear friend Martha than by continuing to cook her beloved recipe with love and joy in my heart.