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Islak Burger (Wet Burger)

The Islak burger, or 'wet burger', is a legendary Turkish street food staple originating from the bustling streets of Istanbul. This high-protein dish puts a unique twist on the classic hamburger, featuring a succulent beef patty tucked inside a soft bun that has been drenched in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce. The magic happens during the final steaming process, which softens the bread and allows the savoury flavours to infuse every bite, creating an incredibly moist and satisfying texture.

Perfect for a weekend treat or a casual dinner with friends, these burgers are best served hot and messy. The combination of browned butter, smoked paprika, and quality minced beef provides a deep, meaty flavour that feels both comforting and indulgent. While they are famously enjoyed as a late-night snack in Taksim Square, this homemade version brings all the authentic taste of Turkey to your own kitchen. Serve them simply on their own for a true street-food experience.

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Ingredients for Islak Burger (Wet Burger)

  • 675g beef mince chuck (20% fat)

  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

  • 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped, divided

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika, divided

  • 5 tablespoons (or more) unsalted butter, divided

  • 60g tomato paste

  • 4 hamburger or brioche buns

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Preheat oven to 204°C. Mix beef, parsley, half of garlic, and 1 teaspoon paprika in a large bowl. Divide into 4 loosely packed patties 4" wide and 3/4" thick. Make a small indentation in the centre with your thumb to help keep it flat as it grills. Chill until ready to use.

Meanwhile, cook 4 tablespoons butter and remaining garlic in a medium saucepan over medium heat, swirling pan occasionally, until butter turns caramel-brown and smells nutty, about 5 minutes. Add tomato paste and remaining 1/2 teaspoons paprika, whisk to combine, and cook until paste begins to caramelize, about 30 seconds. Add 180ml water and whisk until smooth; simmer until mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Melt 1 tablespoon butter and cook buns, cut side down, until cut sides are golden-brown, about 2 minutes (you may need to do this in 2 batches, using additional butter if needed). Using a brush, generously brush cut side of buns with tomato sauce. Transfer buns to a 13x9" glass baking pan.

Add oil to skillet and increase heat to high; heat until oil begins to smoke. Season patties on both sides with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium and cook burgers until lightly charred on the bottom, 2–3 minutes. Flip and cook to desired doneness, 2–3 minutes for medium-rare.

Transfer burgers to pan with sauce and coat burgers in sauce. Transfer burgers to bun bottoms and top with top bun. Brush top of bun with sauce. Cover pan with foil, transfer to oven, and bake 5 minutes. Carefully remove foil and serve immediately.

Raw burger patties and sauce can be made 3 days ahead; cover separately and chill. Reheat sauce in a medium saucepan over medium, whisking until smooth.

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  • 28 jan 2026 | Ursprungligen publicerad

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