It is 11pm and I have just arrived home from yet another disappointing burger restaurant experience. Dry meat, soggy bun and a blunt sauce. How can something which looks simple to cook, be so easily messed up by chefs all around? After months of absence from the kitchen, I have decided to return and find out myself. I will begin a journey of 'research', gathering of ideas and of course cooking. My mission: To make the best burger I have ever eaten in my entire life!
This first article is nothing but an initial brainstorming and hopefully a few ideas by other Steem users. By the end of this week, I will have started the cooking process which will continue until I am satisfied I have created the best burger I have ever tasted. If enough people are interested, I will continue to post updates through new articles and pictures! Feel free to begin your own journey or participate in this one. Don't forget to send me a link if you are joining.
CHALLENGE 1: THE MEAT
Beef seems to be the straight forward choice. But which cut? I like the 'beefy' taste but it needs to contain enough fat to keep it moist. My first choice would be a combination of sirloin (for the meaty flavor) and chuck to add the necessary fat. Later on during my journey I will experiment with short rib and brisket.
To make things a bit more interesting I will make a second patty to which I will add 1/3 of ground lamb or pork. If I can find shoulder of lamb I will go with that, otherwise I will just choose pork. The burgers have to be relatively thick and I will cook them medium (beef and pork mix) and medium-rare (just beef).
CHALLENGE 2: THE BUN
Baking any kind of bread is something that I have never tried before in my life. Therefore for this part of the challenge, I will keep things simple. I will visit my local bakery and buy from what they have available. I will try to get a soft bun with a slight hint of sweetness. Good toasting is important to avoid sogginess.
CHALLENGE 3: THE TOPPINGS
I will choose 1 or 2 recipes from the following 3 for my first burger, depending on the availability of ingredients.
- Avocado, brie cheese and fried egg
I will also add dijon mustard, tomato, lettuce, ketchup and mayo
- Blue cheese sauce, caramelised onions, sheep cheese and bacon
I will also add arugula and butter to help toast the buns.
- Jack Daniel's sauce, baked camembert and bacon
I will also add a slice of cheddar cheese
So this is how my 'burger journey' begins. Any cooking suggestions, recipes and ideas are greatly appreciated! A detailed report, pictures and of course a review will be posted soon.