Barbecue Emu Burgers with Beetroot Relish and Aioli

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy emu meat burgers seasoned and grilled, served with a vibrant beetroot relish and creamy aioli on toasted buns for a distinctive Australian BBQ treat. This australian-inspired bbq & smoked ready in about 25 minutes blends emu mince, small, finely chopped onion, minced garlic clove into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Australian cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 lb emu mince, 1 small finely chopped onion, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, then form into 4 equal-sized patties.
  2. Step 2: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush with 2 tbsp olive oil. Grill the emu patties for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through but still juicy.
  3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 1 tbsp lemon juice to make a zesty aioli.
  4. Step 4: To assemble, spread a generous spoonful of beetroot relish (1/4 cup per burger) on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the emu patty on top, then spread the lemon aioli on the top bun half and close the burger.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately with your favorite sides for a uniquely Australian barbecue experience featuring lean game meat and vibrant condiments.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Barbecue Emu Burgers with Beetroot Relish and Aioli take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Barbecue Emu Burgers with Beetroot Relish and Aioli?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Barbecue Emu Burgers with Beetroot Relish and Aioli?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Barbecue Emu Burgers with Beetroot Relish and Aioli for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Barbecue Emu Burgers with Beetroot Relish and Aioli?

Australian bbq & smoked like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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