5 chef’s tips to celebrate Burger Day in style
Appreciated all over the world, the hamburger even has a date in its honour: May 28 is World Hamburger Day. The occasion is the perfect opportunity to bring guests together and create your own version of the snack.
And it’s not because it’s homemade that it has to be basic. With that in mind, Chef Cesar Brandelli, of Tramontina, gives some prep tips and utensils that will help you take your burger to a professional level.
1. The secret is in the flesh
Whatever type of meat you choose, when it comes to ground beef, it’s all about texture. Mixing more than one type of meat (called a blend) generates different textures and also greatly influences the flavor of the burger.
The ideal is that they are not very lean meats, but have a fat percentage of around 20% and 30%. The most suitable cuts are: acém or needle, rump, sirloin, bishop’s hat, stiff cushion or brisket.
2. Make patterned burgers
Once ground, the meat should be shaped into a hamburger shape. To ensure everyone is equal, you can use a scale to measure the quantity – an average burger weighs between 180g and 200g – and then use a burger press. Controlling the size and thickness also helps standardize cooking.
If you want to avoid problems and ensure uniformity, bet on smaller burgers that are easier to cook. You can combine more than one into a single loaf when assembling.
As for the condiments, salt and pepper are enough to enhance the flavor of the meat. The secret is not to use them all over the burger, but only on the outside, as salt is known to absorb water from the ingredients.
In order not to run the risk of leaving the meat dry and tough, it is always advisable to add it on both sides of the hamburger just before putting it on the fire. The same happens if the intention is to freeze the meat: to preserve its juiciness, avoid salting it beforehand.
3. Be careful when cooking
To cook the burger, you can use a pan or grill. The procedures are very similar, but there are some peculiarities. The most important thing is to ensure a high temperature to sear the burger without overcooking it.
If you opt for a frying pan, opt for triple-bodied ones, which can hold heat more efficiently. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil. After the first hamburger, it will already be properly greased with the natural fat of the meat. For best results, avoid adding more than one burger at a time.
Preparation on the barbecue depends on the fire and requires a little more experience. On the other hand, it leaves the burger with that very special smoky taste. The most important thing here is: don’t squeeze and move the meat – the tip is only turned once.
While the burger is in the pan or grill, you can see the color change from the bottom to the top, from the hottest part to the center of the burger, to the meat side. When you see the liquid from the meat oozing out from the top, it’s a sign that it’s time to turn the meat.
Once done, letting the burger sit for 1 to 2 minutes causes the water to redistribute itself, leaving the meat juicy.
4. Even bread and cheese make a difference
How do you prepare the bread for your burgers? This is also a very important element for the success of the snack. Here the advice is to choose a soft bread, like a brioche. To further enhance the experience, heat the bread on the griddle and brush it with butter.
As for the cheese, it is essential that it melts well, to “embrace” the meat and delight the palate. In addition to the sliced cheese, you can also grate some cheese of your choice – it can be mozzarella, provolone, gruyere, gorgonzola or cheddar – so it melts better.
5. Be careful when serving
A good meal involves all the senses, so one way to enhance the moment with friends even more is to pay attention to the way it is served. A decorated plate helps set the mood, but go for a lighter, more casual option. Another idea is to serve it on wooden boards, ideal supports as they do not transfer odors or flavors to foods in direct contact, as well as giving a charming and rustic touch.
Thus prepared, even the most classic of hamburgers acquires a special touch. Tramontina has several products to help you make your own. Check out: https://www.tramontina.com.br/ambientes/cozinha/
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
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