Thai chiles are small, fresh red or green chiles, and are very hot. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds. You can substitute 1 fresh serrano chile. The flavors of Southeast Asia were the inspiration for these lean burgers, which are wrapped, Vietnamese-style, in lettuce.
Recipe information
Yield
makes 6
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Process 2 shallots, the lemongrass, and the ginger in a food processor until finely ground. Transfer the shallot mixture to a medium bowl. Using your hands, gently combine the shallot mixture, pork, salt, and pepper (do not overwork the meat). Shape into 6 patties. Refrigerate, covered, until cold, about 1 hour (or overnight).
Step 2
Preheat the grill to medium-high (if using a charcoal grill, coals are ready when you can hold your hand 5 inches above grill for just 3 to 4 seconds). Brush the grill and the burgers with oil. Grill the burgers, flipping once, until cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.
Step 3
Make the salad: Stir together the remaining shallot, lime juice, fish sauce, and chiles in a small bowl. Toss together the shredded lettuce, cilantro, and mint in a medium bowl. Add the dressing; toss.
Step 4
To serve, top each burger with some of the salad, then wrap in a Boston lettuce leaf.
