Smash burgers: The trendiest burgers around
Discover what a smash burger is, the key ingredients and how to make this delicious and easy recipe at home. Don't miss out!
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What is a smash burger and why is it so popular?
Smash burger – does the name ring a bell? It should, as this style of burger is taking the culinary world by storm with its unique flavour and simple cooking method. If you're wondering what exactly a smash burger is, let's set the record straight: it's a type of American burger with a special cooking technique. The term 'smash' refers to the cooking method, which involves pressing the meat firmly down on the grill as it cooks.
Smash burgers are traditionally crafted from beef, prized for its robust flavour and optimal fat content, typically ranging between 15-20%. This balance ensures a succulent, tender texture that is both juicy and satisfying. The patties are commonly adorned with melted cheese, tangy pickles, smoky bacon, and crisp onions, all nestled within a soft, buttery brioche bun. Given the patty's relatively thin profile, smash burgers often feature a double layer of meat, creating a hearty and indulgent experience that is sure to delight even the most ardent burger enthusiasts.
Smash burger ingredients
To create these irresistible smash burgers, gather the following ingredients:
- 1kg minced beef (15-20% fat for optimum juiciness)
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 8 slices of cheese (cheddar works well)
- 1 fresh onion
- Crispy fried onions
- 1 fresh tomato (sliced)
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Pickles
- Mayonnaise
- Salt
- Pepper
Smash burger recipe: Step by step
Smash burgers are surprisingly easy to make. Let's take a look at the steps you need to take to make this delicious burger at home!
- Divide the mince into eight portions and season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Form each portion into a patty of regular size and thickness.
- Prepare any additional ingredients ahead of time to ensure everything is ready when the burgers are cooked. This is important to keep the meat hot when serving.
- Toast the brioche buns by spreading a little butter or oil on the cut sides and placing them on a hot frying pan or griddle until golden.
- Heat a large frying pan or griddle over a high heat with a drizzle of oil. Add the burger patties and press down firmly with a spatula to flatten them.
- Once you've turned them over, you don't need to press them down again – just let them cook through. When the edges start to crisp, place a slice of cheese on top to melt.
- Spread the bottom half of each roll with mayonnaise and top with sliced tomato, lettuce and thinly sliced onion. You can also add caramelised or roasted onions for extra flavour.
- Place a cheese-covered patty on top, followed by sliced cucumber, then the second cheese-covered patty.
- Finally, sprinkle crispy fried onions over the top before placing the bun lid on top – and voilà!
With its irresistible taste, crispy texture and authentic appeal, the smash burger is a phenomenon that's here to stay!
