If you’re looking for a Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings a burst of freshness and bold flavour to your table, then the Ainsley Harriott Lamb Burger with Whipped Feta and Mint is the ultimate choice. Originally featured on his hit show Ainsley’s Good Mood Food, this recipe has become a fan favourite for its simplicity and “feel-good” vibes.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to recreate this masterpiece at home, along with expert tips to ensure your lamb patties are juicy and your feta whip is perfectly fluffy.
Table of contents
Why This Ainsley Harriott Lamb Burger is a Must-Try
Unlike traditional beef burgers, Ainsley’s lamb version uses aromatic spices like cumin and chilli flakes, paired with the cooling, tangy sensation of whipped feta. It’s the perfect balance of heat and refreshment, making it ideal for a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
Key Highlights:
- Juicy Lamb Patties: Seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon zest.
- The “Secret” Whipped Feta: A creamy, fluffy topping that replaces standard cheese.
- Mediterranean Flair: Served in Greek pitta for an authentic touch.
Ainsley Harriott Lamb Burger Ingredients
For the Lamb Patties:
- 500g High-Quality Minced Lamb: (20% fat is recommended for maximum juiciness).
- 1 Large Garlic Clove: Minced.
- ½ Red Onion: Finely chopped or grated.
- ½ tsp Ground Cumin: For that warm, earthy undertone.
- ½ tsp Chilli Flakes: For a subtle kick.
- 2 tsp Fresh Oregano: (Or 1 tsp dried).
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped.
- Zest of ½ Large Lemon: To brighten the flavours.
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper: To taste.
For the Whipped Feta & Mint:
- 200g Feta Cheese: Crumbled.
- 3 tbsp Thick Greek Yoghurt: For creaminess.
- 2 tsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil.
- Zest of ½ Large Lemon.
- 2 tbsp Fresh Mint: Finely chopped.
To Serve:
- 4 Greek Pittas or Burger Buns.
- Salad Leaves: (Baby spinach works beautifully).
- Vine Tomatoes: Thinly sliced.
- Red Onion & Cucumber: Sliced for extra crunch.
How to Make Ainsley Harriott’s Lamb Burgers
1. Prepare the Whipped Feta
Place the feta, Greek yoghurt, and olive oil into a food processor. Blend until the mixture is light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides as needed. Once smooth, stir in the lemon zest and fresh mint. Chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
2. Shape the Lamb Patties
In a large bowl, combine the minced lamb, garlic, onion, cumin, chilli flakes, herbs, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly.
Pro Tip: Divide the mixture into 4 patties. Press a small indent in the centre with your thumb; this prevents the burger from “puffing up” and ensures even cooking.
3. Grill to Perfection
Preheat your barbecue or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Drizzle the patties with a little oil and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your preference.
You Might Also Like
-
Ainsley Harriott Chicken and Leek Pie RecipeAinsley Harriott's Chicken and Leek Pie is a proper British comfort classic — tender chunks… -
Ainsley Harriott Minced Beef and Potato Pie RecipeAinsley Harriott's Minced Beef and Potato Pie is a proper old-fashioned British comfort dish —…
-
Ainsley Harriott BBQ Jerk Cheeseburger with Pineapple Salsa RecipeAinsley Harriott's BBQ Jerk Cheeseburger is the ultimate Caribbean-style burger — a juicy, smoky jerk-seasoned…
-
Ainsley Harriott Light & Crunchy Fish Cakes RecipeThese Ainsley Harriott Light & Crunchy Fish Cakes are the kind of easy, comforting dinner…
-
Ainsley Harriott Smoked Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Sundried Tomato...Introduction Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with Ainsley Harriott's delightful Smoked Spiced Lamb…
-
Ainsley Harriott Fabulous Fish Pie RecipeThis Ainsley Harriott Fabulous Fish Pie is the kind of comforting, family-friendly dinner that never…
-
Ainsley Harriott Slow Roasted Lamb RecipeThis Ainsley Harriott slow-roasted lamb is a showstopping centrepiece roast packed with garlic, rosemary, and…
-
Ainsley Harriott Roasted Vegetable Couscous RecipeThis Ainsley Harriott Roasted Vegetable Couscous Recipe is a vibrant, fuss-free traybake that bursts with…
-
Ainsley Harriott Chicken Curry RecipeThis Ainsley Harriott chicken curry is a vibrant, soul-warming Caribbean classic that brings the sunshine…
-
Ainsley Harriott Chicken and Chorizo Paella Recipeby Emily Carter | Updated April 3, 2026 This Ainsley Harriott Chicken and Chorizo Paella is…
-
Ainsley Harriott's Smashed Burger RecipeAinsley Harriott's Smashed Burger is a bold, unapologetic homage to the classic American double cheeseburger—crispy-edged…
-
Ainsley Harriott Caribbean-Inspired Cottage Pie RecipeThis Ainsley Harriott Caribbean-Inspired Cottage Pie is a warming, family-style dinner with a bold twist.…
4. Assemble the Burger
Warm your pittas on the grill. Slice them open to create a pocket. Layer in the salad leaves, tomato, and the grilled lamb patty. Top with sliced red onion, cucumber, and a generous dollop of the whipped feta.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Result
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: When mixing the lamb, be gentle. Over-mixing can lead to a tough, dense burger.
- Room Temperature: Take the lamb out of the fridge 15 minutes before cooking so it grills evenly.
- The Pitta Secret: Lightly charring the pitta bread adds a smoky dimension that complements the lamb perfectly.
Ainsley Harriott Lamb Burger with Whipped Feta & Mint
Equipment
- Food Processor
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Barbecue or Grill Pan
Ingredients
For the Lamb Patties
- 500 g minced lamb 20% fat recommended
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1/2 red onion finely chopped or grated
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chilli flakes
- 2 tsp fresh oregano leaves or 1 tsp dried
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1/2 lemon zest from large lemon
For the Whipped Feta & Mint
- 200 g feta cheese crumbled
- 3 tbsp thick Greek yoghurt
- 2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 lemon zest from large lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh mint finely chopped
Instructions
- Put the feta, yogurt, and olive oil into a food processor and blend until light and fluffy. Add the lemon zest and mint and pulse until combined.
- In a large bowl, mix the minced lamb, garlic, onion, cumin, chili flakes, herbs, lemon zest, salt and pepper using your hands.
- Divide the mixture into 4 patties (1 inch thick). Press a thumb-shaped indent into the center of each to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat a barbecue or grill pan. Drizzle burgers with oil and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked to your liking.
- Warm the pitta on the grill, slice open, and layer with salad, tomato, the grilled patty, onion, cucumber, and a generous spoon of whipped feta.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the patties at 200°C (400°F) for about 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
These burgers pair perfectly with a side of Ainsley Harriott’s Roasted Vegetable Couscous or a simple Greek salad.
While fresh mint provides the best “Good Mood Food” experience, you can use 1 tsp of dried mint in the feta whip if fresh isn’t available.
Recipe Card Summary
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Serves | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 Mins | 10 Mins | 4 People | Easy |
Ready to bring the Mediterranean to your kitchen? Try this Ainsley Harriott lamb burger recipe today and don’t forget to share your results with us!
