PLAY UP YOUR PATTY

PORK Ground pork is a blank canvas for innovative seasonings, so it’s perfect for creative cooks. For the best results, have the meat ground coarsely—finely ground pork becomes too dense when shaped.

LAMB Ground lamb (especially the flavorpacked shoulder), patted gently and adorned with no more than salt, makes an extraordinary burger. Cooked with a variety of spices, it is sublime.

TURKEY OR CHICKEN

Ground turkey and chicken are mild-mannered flavor sponges, willing to soak up any seasonings you give them. When purchasing, buy those that are ground from the whole bird— breast meat will crumble.