Common Features of Great Burgers

Common Features of Great Burgers

 Many factors combine to make great burgers. As you contemplate the various features of this quintessential American meal, learn what to look for to find quality food. A delectable hamburger will stay memorable on your taste buds, enticing you back for another try.

Quality

Burgers are typically as great as the meat they contain. For the most delicious meal, the ground meat should be made from ground chuck steak. The reasoning for choosing chuck steak is the ratio of fat to meat. With 80 percent meat and 20 percent fat, you will be able to enjoy hearty flavors. At the same time, this fat content will also prevent dryness. Conversely, choosing a cut with too much fat will create shrinkage during cooking. Many restaurants create their own blends by mixing chuck and brisket. The addition of bacon pieces is usually a culinary hit.

Bun to Patty Ratio

The bun housing the meat deserves more than just an afterthought. While a sizable bun often looks great on a plate, the size of the patty will need to be large enough to keep up with the bun. Ideally, as patrons bite into their patty, they will get equal ratios of both bun and patty in every bite. If this ratio is imbalanced, adjustments are recommended to even it out.

Seasonings

A variety of seasonings can bring spark to a meat patty. While it's possible to get fancy with unusual blends, simple salt and pepper will also suffice. The pepper should be freshly ground from whole peppercorns for the boldest flavor. Pre-ground pepper will deliver lackluster taste results. Kosher salt is a good choice, thanks to the hearty crystals that will ensure sufficient coverage. Expert seasoning will involve adding salt and pepper only about two minutes prior to grilling. Seasoning prior to this time will lead to dull and dry burgers due to the chemical reaction between the salt and the meat.

Accompaniments

Everybody has their favorite accompaniments. Whether it is onions and Swiss cheese, American cheese, tomatoes or bibb lettuce, a winning hamburger will include whatever accompaniments fit individual taste buds. When adding cheese, the chef will typically flip the meat once and then add the cheese to allow it to melt into the patty and flavor it. The addition of ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and pickles is standard fare.

Other Considerations

When constructing the perfect patty, structural integrity is an important factor. While a variety of accompaniments and ingredients can make a delightful combination, an over-packed hamburger is difficult and messy to eat. Some spillage is typical and even expected, but an exploding meal will usually end up with frustration. Adding gourmet touches such as unusual ingredients or a designer bun can amp up burgers from boring to epicurean.

Skip the fast food joints and explore the many options in special burgers that will give you a memorable and gourmet dining experience. Once you try and recognize this gourmand taste, you will never settle for anything less.



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