Introduction
The smash burger has become a favorite for many burger enthusiasts, offering a crispy exterior and juicy interior that is hard to resist. Jamie Oliver’s take on this classic showcases the art of maximizing flavor through simplicity. This recipe demonstrates how basic ingredients can come together to create a delicious, satisfying meal that you can enjoy any day of the week.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ground beef (preferably 80/20 fat ratio) – 500g
Sea salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Burger buns – 4
Cheddar cheese – 4 slices
Pickles – as desired
Onion – 1, thinly sliced
Tomato – 1, sliced
Lettuce – a few leaves
Ketchup – for serving
Mustard – for serving
Prep Time
Prep time for this recipe is approximately 10 minutes. This quick prep ensures that you can move straight to the grilling and cooking process, allowing you to enjoy your freshly made burgers in no time.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 10 minutes. With a total time of about 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe yields 4 smash burgers. Perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends, these burgers are sure to be a hit.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Beef
Start with high-quality minced beef, ideally with a fat content of around 20%. This ensures the burgers remain juicy and flavorful.
Shape the Patties
Divide the minced beef into equal portions and gently shape them into balls. Avoid over-handling the meat to keep the texture tender.
Flatten the Patties
Using a spatula or your hands, gently flatten each ball into a patty. Aim for a thickness of about 2.5 cm, as the burgers will shrink slightly during cooking.
Heat the Grill or Pan
Preheat your grill or a non-stick frying pan over high heat. Ensure it’s hot before adding the patties to achieve a nice sear.
Cook the Burgers
Place the patties on the grill or in the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until a crust forms, then flip them.
Add Cheese (Optional)
If you desire cheeseburgers, place a slice of your preferred cheese on each patty right after flipping and cover for the last minute to melt.
Toast the Buns
Cut the burger buns in half and toast them lightly on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown.
Assemble the Burgers
Place the cooked patties on the bottom half of the toasted buns. Add your choice of toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and sauces.
Top and Serve
Add the top half of the bun to each assembled burger and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Choosing the Right Beef
For the best flavor, use freshly minced beef rather than pre-packaged varieties.
Cooking Method
You can cook these burgers on a grill, in a frying pan, or even under a broiler depending on your preference.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different toppings and condiments to customize each burger to your liking.
Resting Time
Allow the cooked burgers to rest for a couple of minutes before serving to help retain their juices.
Storage
Leftover burgers can be stored in the fridge for a day or two, but it’s best to consume them fresh for optimal taste.
Cook techniques
Choosing the Right Beef
Selecting high-quality beef with a good fat-to-meat ratio, ideally around 80/20, ensures juicy and flavorful burgers.
Shaping the Patties
Gently shape the patties without overworking the meat to retain tenderness. Make them slightly larger than the bun since they will shrink while cooking.
Smashing the Burgers
Use a flat spatula to smash the patties on the grill or skillet to create a crispy, caramelized crust. This enhances flavor and texture.
Cooking Techniques
Cook the burgers over high heat for a short time to achieve a perfect sear while keeping the inside juicy. Flip only once for the best results.
Seasoning
Season the patties just before cooking with salt and pepper to enhance the natural beef flavor.
Choosing the Right Buns
Use soft, sturdy buns that can hold the juicy burger without falling apart, and consider toasting them for added texture.
Toppings and Condiments
Offer a variety of toppings such as cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sauces to complement the flavor of the burger.
FAQ
What is the ideal thickness for a smash burger patty?
Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch for a proper cook and perfect sear.
Can I use leaner beef for smash burgers?
While you can use leaner beef, it may result in a drier burger. A higher fat content is recommended for juiciness.
How do I know when the burger is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
Is it necessary to let burgers rest after cooking?
Yes, letting the burgers rest for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier burger.
Can I make smash burgers in advance?
While it’s best to cook them fresh, you can prepare and shape the patties ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Conclusion
Enjoying a delicious smash burger is all about the balance of flavors and textures. This recipe not only showcases the beauty of a perfectly cooked beef patty but also encourages creativity with toppings and sauces. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a backyard barbecue, these burgers are sure to impress. Dive into the art of smash burgers and elevate your grilling game.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Cheeseburger
Add a slice of your favorite cheese to the patty just before it’s fully cooked, allowing it to melt perfectly. Top with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and classic ketchup and mustard.
Spicy Jalapeño Burger
Incorporate sliced jalapeños into the meat mixture or as a topping. Combine with pepper jack cheese and a spicy mayo for a kick.
BBQ Bacon Burger
Add crispy bacon and a drizzle of smoky barbecue sauce. Pair it with onion rings for extra crunch.
Mushroom Swiss Burger
Sauté mushrooms in butter and garlic, adding them on top of a Swiss cheese-covered patty for a savory, earthy flavor.
Greek Burger
Mix feta cheese and herbs like oregano into the meat. Top with tzatziki sauce, cucumber slices, and roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean twist.
Avocado & Chipotle Burger
Mash ripe avocado with lime and chipotle seasoning for a creamy topping. Complement with fresh cilantro and slices of tomato.
Buffalo Blue Cheese Burger
Toss the cooked patties in buffalo sauce and top with crumbled blue cheese and celery slaw for a bold flavor experience.
Caprese Burger
Top a beef patty with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an Italian-inspired option.