Introduction
Juicy, homemade burgers are a classic favorite that never disappoints. This delicious recipe takes quality lean minced beef and combines it with melted Cheddar cheese, crunchy gherkins, and fresh vegetables, all nestled within wholemeal burger buns. Perfect for a barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these burgers can be customized to suit your taste. Let’s dive into the ingredients and method to create these mouth-watering delights.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 500g quality lean minced beef
– 100g Cheddar cheese
– 4 gherkins
– 200g red cabbage
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– ½ an iceberg lettuce
– ½ a cucumber
– 6 small burger buns, preferably wholemeal
– Optional: tomato ketchup, to serve
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, which includes mixing the beef, slicing the vegetables, and creating the patties.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 8 minutes, making the total time for this recipe about 28 minutes. This recipe yields 6 delicious burgers, perfect for serving family or friends.
To create these burgers, start by mixing the minced beef, shaping it into patties, and refrigerating them until cooking. Slice the Cheddar cheese and gherkins, preparing the fresh vegetables to add a vibrant crunch. Cook the patties on a hot grill or pan, melting cheese on top for that gooey goodness. Finally, assemble the burgers with all the delicious toppings and serve with a side of extra veggies and a drizzle of ketchup. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties
Use clean hands to thoroughly mix the minced beef in a mixing bowl. Once combined, divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into tight patties and place them on a tray. Cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate the patties until ready to cook. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat.
Step 2: Slice Cheese and Gherkins
Slice the Cheddar cheese into even pieces that will fit nicely on the burgers. Next, take the gherkins and slice them into thin rounds. For added texture, if you have a crinkle-cut knife, use it to slice the gherkins.
Step 3: Prepare Red Cabbage
Finely slice or grate the red cabbage and transfer it to a bowl. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar over the cabbage. Mix well to ensure the cabbage is evenly coated with the vinegar.
Step 4: Prepare Lettuce and Cucumber
Shred the iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces and slice the cucumber into thin rounds. Place the shredded lettuce and sliced cucumber into another bowl for easy assembly later.
Step 5: Cook the Burgers
Preheat your barbecue or a frying pan or griddle pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the burgers to the cooking surface. Cook each patty for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side before flipping them with a spatula. Ensure you cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
After the burgers have cooked through, place a slice of cheese on each patty. Cover the barbecue or pan with a lid or aluminum foil and allow the cheese to melt for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 7: Warm the Burger Buns
While the cheese is melting, cut the burger buns in half. If using a barbecue, place the halved buns on the grill for about 30 seconds to warm them.
Step 8: Assemble the Burgers
To assemble, place a cooked patty with melted cheese into the bottom half of each bun. Add gherkins on top, and optionally include the shredded lettuce and cucumber. Serve additional lettuce, cucumber, and pickled red cabbage on the side. If desired, add a dollop of tomato ketchup before placing the bun lids on top and serving.
Notes
Note 1: Safety First
Always wash your hands and any surfaces or utensils that have come into contact with raw meat to avoid cross-contamination.
Note 2: Customization
Feel free to customize the burger toppings as per your taste. Other options can include tomatoes, onions, or sauces.
Note 3: Cooking Times
Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your patties and the heat of your cooking surface. Ensure patties are cooked through and have reached a safe internal temperature.
Cook techniques
Mixing Minced Beef
Use clean hands to thoroughly mix the minced beef until well combined. This helps ensure even seasoning and flavor throughout the patties.
Shaping Patties
Divide the meat into 6 equal portions and shape them into tight patties. This provides uniform cooking and helps the burgers maintain their shape during cooking.
Preparing Toppings
Slice the Cheddar cheese and gherkins. For a decorative touch, use a crinkle-cut knife on the gherkins if you have one.
Red Cabbage Preparation
Finely slice or grate the red cabbage and mix it with red wine vinegar in a bowl. This adds tanginess and helps soften the cabbage for better texture.
Shredding Lettuce and Slicing Cucumber
Shred the iceberg lettuce and slice the cucumber into thin pieces. This adds freshness and crunch to the burgers.
Cooking Burgers
Cook the burgers on a hot barbecue or frying pan over medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents overcooking.
Melting Cheese
After cooking the burgers, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the grill or pan for 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly.
Warming Burger Buns
Cut the burger buns in half and warm them alongside the burgers for about 30 seconds on a barbecue, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Assembling the Burgers
Assemble the burgers by placing the patty in the bun, adding gherkins, lettuce, and cucumber if desired. Serve with pickled red cabbage on the side.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, but make sure it melts well for the best texture.
How can I ensure the burgers stay juicy?
Avoid overworking the meat when mixing, and cook them at a medium-high temperature without pressing down on the patties during cooking.
What can I replace if I don’t have gherkins?
If you don’t have gherkins, you can use other pickled vegetables or even fresh pickles for a similar flavor.
Can I make the burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours or freeze them for later use.
What is the best way to check if the burgers are cooked?
You can use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 71°C (160°F) for beef burgers. Alternatively, cut one open to check that there’s no pink in the center.
Conclusion
This delicious burger recipe combines quality lean minced beef with melted Cheddar cheese and crunchy gherkins, all wrapped up in wholesome wholemeal buns. The refreshing red cabbage slaw adds a tangy kick, while the fresh vegetables like iceberg lettuce and cucumber provide a satisfying crunch. Whether grilled or cooked on a stovetop, these burgers are sure to please anyone at your table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try adding sliced tomatoes and avocado for a creamy texture in your burgers.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Consider incorporating spices like paprika or garlic powder into the minced beef for an extra flavor boost.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Substitute Cheddar cheese with blue cheese or feta for a different and bold flavor profile.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a healthier alternative, make a lettuce wrap instead of using burger buns.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add a slice of crispy bacon for an additional layer of taste and texture.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Experiment with different pickles, such as spicy jalapeños or dill pickles, to tailor the flavor to your liking.
