1. Prepare the Spice Mix:

   • In a small bowl, combine 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried oregano or mixed herbs, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper.

   • Mix well and set aside.

   • Beginner Tip: Mix thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution; store extra in an airtight container for future use.

2. Prepare the Potatoes:

   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) or an air fryer to 200°C (390°F).

   • Wash and cut 2–3 medium potatoes into thin fries or wedges; pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture.

   • In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil and half the spice mix until evenly coated.

   • Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking tray (or in the air fryer basket).

   • Bake in the oven for 30–40 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry for 20 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy.

   • Beginner Tip: Pat potatoes dry for maximum crispiness; avoid overcrowding the tray for even cooking.

3. Cook the Beef Mince:

   • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan over high heat until shimmering.

   • Add 500 g lean beef mince, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

   • Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally.

   • Sprinkle the remaining spice mix over the beef and continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the meat is darkened and excess moisture has evaporated (internal temperature 160°F or 71°C).

   • Beginner Tip: Break up beef finely for even cooking; drain excess fat if using non-lean mince.

4. Make the Burger Sauce:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow), 1 tsp pickle juice, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp smoked paprika.

   • Taste and adjust with more pickle juice or salt if needed; set aside.

   • Beginner Tip: Mix until smooth; add a splash of water for a thinner drizzle if desired.

5. Assemble the Bowls:

   • Divide the crispy potatoes among 4 bowls as the base.

   • Add a portion of shredded lettuce to each bowl for freshness.

   • Top with cooked beef mince, a sprinkle of cheese (dairy-free or regular), and pickle slices.

   • Drizzle each bowl with the burger sauce.

   • Beginner Tip: Layer ingredients for a colorful presentation; adjust cheese and sauce to taste.

6. Serve:

   • Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra pickles, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

   • Beginner Tip: Serve warm to enjoy the contrast of crispy potatoes, hot beef, and cool lettuce.

Cooking Tips

• Potato Crispiness: Cut potatoes evenly and pat dry to ensure crisp results; flip halfway through baking to brown both sides.

• Beef Texture: Cook beef on high heat for a slight crust; stir minimally after adding spice mix to retain moisture.

• Sauce Balance: Taste the sauce and adjust with extra mustard for tang or ketchup for sweetness; store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• Cheese Melting: For melty cheese, sprinkle it over hot beef mince right after cooking; cover briefly to trap heat if needed.

• Lettuce Freshness: Rinse and dry lettuce thoroughly (use a salad spinner) to keep it crisp; add just before serving to avoid wilting.