Quinoa-and-Turkey Patties in Pita with Tahini Sauce

Name: Quinoa-and-Turkey Patties in Pita with Tahini Sauce
Yield: serves 6
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups water, or more as needed; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained; 1 garlic clove; 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste); 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 12 ounces ground turkey, preferably at least 7% fat; 1/4 teaspoon plus 1 pinch ground allspice; 1/2 teaspoon plus 1 pinch ground cumin; Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint; 2 scallions, trimmed and finely chopped; Coarse salt; 2 teaspoons neutral-tasting oil, such as canola or safflower, plus more if needed; 6 lettuce leaves, torn into large pieces; 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced; 6 pitas (6-inch)

January 26, 2012

These patties are inspired by the Middle Eastern dish kibbe, most often made of ground lamb and bulgur wheat. The combination of turkey and quinoa is particularly rich in protein, with a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the crisp cucumber and red-onion slices, and the creamy tahini dressing served alongside.

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