grilled hamburgers

the photo doesn't do this burger justice.  (remember how i lack photography skills)  it's so good.  and that's a lot coming from a girl who doesn't eat a whole lot of meat.  especially red meat.  no reason for the aversion to meat, it just doesn't tickle my fancy.  ya know? (there are a few exceptions and this is one of them)  but this burger...it's so great.  there are some very important tips to making the perfect burger and i'll share them with you.

first - and this is the most important part - get the right meat.  always buy the best ground beef you can find.  preferably ground chuck.  and this is not the time for lean.  buy at least the 85/15 ground beef.  the fat is what makes a burger juicy.  you don't eat these every day, folks, so go big or go home. 

second - crispy iceberg lettuce makes all the difference.  cut the head of lettuce in half and use the iceberg heart, those crispy innermost leaves.

third - grilled onions.  nuf said, right?  no?  slice a good sweet yellow onion into rings and grill in a little olive oil butter combo until translucent.  then sprinkle with a little brown sugar.  pure deliciousness.  and if you're feeling a little adventurous, add a dash of curry powder to your grilled onions.  it's amazing.

fourth - grill your bun.  after the burgers have finished cooking and the BBQ is hot, place very lightly buttered buns cut side down on the hot grills.  grill until toasty.  if you're not using a BBQ, just grill under a broiler.

and there you have it.  my best secrets to a fantastic burger.  here's the recipe for the meat:

1 pound ground chuck 85/15

1/2 cup yoshidas teriyaki sauce

5 Tbsp worcestershire sauce

2 Tbsp dijon mustard

blend together just until sauces have incorporated.  do not overmix.

form into thin patties (remember they shrink when cooked).

heavily salt both sides of the patties and grill until cooked through.  add a piece of yummy cheese.  dubliner, sharp cheddar, swiss cheese, pepper jack.  whatever you're feeling.  melt the cheese, place on the bun, top with grilled onions, lettuce and whatever condiments you like.