Ostrich meat can be a smart choice for hamburgers if you want something leaner without giving up that rich, meaty taste. It is naturally lower in fat than many beef mince options, but still gives you plenty of protein to help keep you full and support muscle health. Ostrich is also a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which help with energy, immunity, and healthy red blood cells. It’s also easy to prepare. A bit of seasoning, a hot pan or grill, and you’ve got a patty that holds its own against any traditional burger.

Ingredients

• 500 g ostrich mince
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 sesame burger buns, toasted
• Lettuce leaves
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• Tomato sauce or preferred burger sauce

Method

1. Place ostrich mince in a bowl with salt, pepper and mustard.
2. Gently mix and shape into 4 patties without compacting too tightly.
3. Heat olive oil in a pan or on a grill over medium heat.
4. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until just cooked through.
5. Rest for 2 minutes.
6. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion and sauce.
7. Serve immediately.