Recipe: Smash Patty Burgers with Caramelised onions and Cheddar
Burgers have a remarkable way of evoking fond memories and taking us back to special moments in our lives. For me, it's the nostalgic memories of my school years when my mom would treat me to takeaway burgers for lunch once a month. These memories hold a special place in our hearts, as they are often associated with joy, comfort, and the people we care about. Burgers are not just a meal; they are an experience that brings people together. They represent simplicity, indulgence, and satisfaction. The sizzling patty, the melty cheese, the tangy sauces, and the combination of flavors and textures create a symphony of deliciousness that transcends time and place.
Whether it's a casual get-together with friends, a backyard braai, or a family gathering, burgers are the perfect choice for any occasion. They offer endless possibilities for customization, allowing each individual to create their own unique masterpiece. From the choice of patty, be it beef, chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian options, to the selection of toppings and sauces, burgers cater to diverse preferences and dietary needs.
Burgers are a symbol of comfort and familiarity. They remind us of simpler times, like enjoying a burger with friends after school or savoring a delicious burger at a family picnic. These shared moments create lasting memories and bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Moreover, they are incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different flavor combinations by adding various toppings such as crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, avocado, or pickles. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to unleash your creativity and tailor the burger to your liking.
One of the greatest joys of burgers is their ability to bring people together. Whether it's a casual gathering or a special celebration, serving burgers creates an inviting and inclusive atmosphere. People can gather around a grill, customize their own burgers, and bond over the shared experience of enjoying this iconic dish. Incorporating my mom's tradition of takeaway burgers adds an extra layer of sentiment to the experience. It symbolizes the love and care that goes into preparing a meal for someone you care about. Recreating those moments through homemade burgers allows you to relive those cherished memories and share them with others.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Begin by preparing the caramelized onions. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
Sprinkle the brown sugar over the onions and continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the sugar starts to caramelize.
Add the balsamic vinegar to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the onions are caramelized and have a rich, sweet flavor. Set aside.
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, tomato sauce, Tabasco sauce, paprika, and honey to create the special sauce. Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Set aside.
Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape them into balls. Season each ball generously with salt and pepper.
Place one ball of ground beef onto the preheated skillet and immediately press it down with a spatula to create a thin patty. Smash the patty down firmly to ensure maximum contact with the cooking surface. Repeat this process with the remaining balls of ground beef.
Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes on one side until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the patties and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
Assemble the burgers by spreading the special sauce on the bottom half of each burger bun. Place a smash patty with melted cheese on top of the sauce. Add a generous amount of caramelized onions on top of the patty. Finally, place the top half of the bun over the onions.
So, whether it's a trip down memory lane or creating new memories, burgers have a unique way of bringing joy and togetherness to any occasion. They are a timeless classic that satisfies both the palate and the soul, making them a beloved choice for any meal, any time, and any celebration. Enjoy your smash patty burger with caramelized onions and cheddar, and may it bring back those wonderful moments from your school years!