Build a Better Burger

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

24 May 2009 01:07 PM

When it comes to grilling, nothing tastes better than a thick, juicy hamburger. Burgers are almost impossible to ruin on the grill, and they can be tailored to suit individual tastes. Cheese lovers can pile on the dairy to make their burgers moo-licious, while seafood fans can nix the beef all together and opt for a salmon or crab burger.

The following simple recipes illustrate how you can build a better burger in your own backyard:

TEX MEX CHEESEBURGERS

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef

1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and pepper

4 hamburger buns, split, toasted

1/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

1/2 cup chopped tomato

Jar of your favorite salsa

Directions:

Combine ground beef, green onions and cumin in medium bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Lightly shape into 4 (1/2 inch) thick patties.

Place patties on medium-hot grill.

Cook uncovered for about 12 minutes or until the burger is no longer pink in center and juices run clear.

Place burger on bottom of each bun, top with cheese, tomato and salsa.

CRAB CAKE BURGER

Ingredients:

1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (canned)

1 ounce green pepper, diced

1 ounce red pepper, diced

1 ounce red onion, diced

1 each garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon Tabasco

1 teaspoon dry thyme leaves

1 pinch cayenne pepper

1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

3 cups breadcrumbs

Directions:

Combine all ingredients, except the crabmeat, plus 1 cup of the breadcrumbs and mix well.

Wait a few minutes for the breadcrumbs to absorb the moisture, then add the crabmeat and mix together.

Make crab cakes and dredge in remaining cup of breadcrumbs. Set aside.

Heat grill.

Dust burger with Cajun seasoning and place on grill.

Cook to preferred doneness. Note: Watch the crab cake. When it becomes golden brown around the edges flip it. Continue cooking until the other side has turned golden brown.

On the bottom of the burger bun place spring greens and tomato slices.

When crab cake is finished, place it on top of tomatoes. Add tarter sauce or Cajun seasoning as desired. Place bun on top and serve.

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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