Greek Moussaka Burger Fusion (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Lamb Patty

01 - 500 g ground lamb, preferably organic
02 - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
03 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
04 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Béchamel Sauce

05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
07 - 240 ml whole milk
08 - Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Additional Components

10 - 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1 cm rounds
11 - Olive oil, for brushing
12 - 4 medium burger buns, toasted
13 - Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - In a mixing bowl, blend ground lamb with garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper until evenly distributed. Shape into four equal patties. Refrigerate whilst preparing other elements.
02 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until foaming. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until a pale golden roux forms. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously, until sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
03 - Preheat a grill pan to medium-high. Lightly brush both sides of eggplant rounds with olive oil. Grill for 3–4 minutes per side, or until tender with grill marks. Reserve on a platter.
04 - Heat a grill or frying pan over medium heat. Cook patties for approximately 4–5 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 71°C. Transfer briefly to rest.
05 - Spread béchamel sauce on the base of each bun. Layer with grilled eggplant, top with a lamb patty, and drizzle a second spoonful of sauce. Cap with the remaining bun. Garnish with mint leaves.

# Notes:

01 - For optimal texture, salt eggplant slices lightly and let rest for 20 minutes before grilling, then pat dry to reduce bitterness.