Mushroom and Halloumi Burger
Description:
This hearty and savory burger swaps out traditional meat for juicy portobello mushrooms and golden-fried halloumi cheese. Paired with caramelized onions, fresh greens, and a tangy garlic yogurt sauce, it’s a satisfying vegetarian option that’s full of umami flavor and texture.
Total Time:
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Servings: 2 burgers
Ingredients:
For the burger:
2 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
4 slices halloumi cheese (about 100g)
2 burger buns (wholemeal or brioche)
1 small red onion, thinly slice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
A hndful of lettuce or arugulal
2 slices of tomato (optional)
For the garlic yogurt sauce:
3 tbsp Greek yogurt
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate Mushrooms:
Lightly brush mushrooms with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Drizzle a little balsamic vinegar over the top.
Set aside for 5–10 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
2. Caramelize Onions:
In a skillet, heat 1/2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
Add red onion slices and cook for 6–8 minutes until soft and golden.
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar near the end and stir. Set aside.
3. Cook Mushrooms & Halloumi:
In the same skillet, cook mushrooms cap-side down for 3–4 minutes, then flip and cook another 3 minutes until tender.
Push mushrooms aside and add halloumi slices. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
4. Make Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
5. Assemble the Burger:
Lightly toast the burger buns.
Spread garlic yogurt sauce on the bottom bun.
Add lettuce or greens, grilled mushroom, fried halloumi, caramelized onion, tomato (if using), and the top bun.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving/Burger):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~420 kcal
Protein 20g
Fat 25g
Saturated Fat 12g
Carbohydrates 28g
Fiber 3g
Sugars 6g
Sodium ~900mg
Calcium 30% DV
Note: Nutrition may vary slightly depending on bun type and halloumi brand. Questions & Answers
Q: Can I grill the mushrooms instead of pan-frying?
A: Yes! Grilling adds a smokier flavor. Brush with oil and grill for 4–5 minutes per side.
Q: Is there a vegan version of this burger?
A: Swap halloumi for a vegan grilling cheese or marinated tofu, and use plant-based yogurt for the sauce.
Q: What goes well as a side?
A: Sweet potato fries, a green salad, or crispy zucchini chips pair perfectly.
Q: Can I add a sauce other than garlic yogurt?
A: Absolutely! Try pesto, hummus, harissa mayo, or even BBQ sauce.
Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free burger buns or le
ttuce wraps.