The humble burger’s origins can be traced back through centuries and cultures. From ancient civilizations using ground meat patties to medieval Europe’s meat-filled sandwiches, the burger’s evolution eventually led to its iconic form in America. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of the modern hamburger, made famous by its appearance at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. This portable and flavorful creation quickly captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world, becoming an essential part of global culinary culture.

The foundation of any exceptional burger lies in the patty itself. Crafting the perfect patty involves a delicate balance of meat selection, seasoning, and cooking technique. A well-seasoned patty not only enhances the meat’s flavor but also creates a harmonious blend of textures and aromas that elevate the overall burger experience.

FOR THE PATTIES:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean is recommended)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

• Sliced cheddar cheese
• Sliced tomatoes
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced red onion
• Pickles

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon pickle juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

• Burger buns, lightly toasted

INSTRUCTIONS

PTEPARING THE PATTIES:

1. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix the ingredients until they’re just combined. Overmixing can result in tough patties.
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties of your desired size. Create a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent bulging during cooking.

COOKING THE PATTIES:

1. Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. If grilling, oil the grates to prevent sticking. If pan-frying, add a small amount of oil to the skillet.
2. Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your preferred level of doneness.
3. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.

PREPARING TH BURGER SAUCE:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

ASSEMBLONG THE BURGERS:

1. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
2. Place a cooked patty with melted cheese on top of the lettuce.
3. Layer sliced tomatoes, red onion, and pickles on top of the patty.
4. Generously drizzle the burger sauce over the toppings.
5. Place the top half of the toasted bun on top, creating a complete burger.

SAVORING MIKE’S SAVORY BURGERS:

1. Serve Mike’s Savory Burgers alongside your favorite sides, such as French fries, onion rings, or a crisp salad.
2. Take a satisfying bite into the burger, savoring the combination of juicy beef, melted cheese, fresh toppings, and the zesty burger sauce.

CONCLUSION:

• Mike’s Savory Burgers pay homage to the legacy of the burger while infusing it with a personalized touch that captivates the senses. With each mouthwatering bite, you’re indulging in the culmination of centuries of culinary evolution, from ancient meat patties to the modern burger phenomenon. This recipe invites you to embrace the creative spirit of the kitchen and to relish the joy of crafting and savoring a burger that transcends time, tradition, and taste.