Frequently Asked Questions
What are Gourmet Herb-Infused Beef Burgers?
These are high-quality beef patties seasoned with fresh herbs and spices, inspired by the iconic 21 Club in New York City.
What is the inspiration for this burger recipe?
The recipe is inspired by the 21 Club in NYC and was adapted from Saveur magazine.
How much ground beef do I need?
You will need 2 lbs of lean ground beef for this recipe.
What kind of onion is used in the patties?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of minced yellow onion.
Which fresh herbs are included in the mixture?
Fresh minced thyme and fresh minced rosemary are used to infuse the burgers with flavor.
What spices are added to the beef?
The beef is seasoned with ground black pepper, ground coriander, ground fennel, and a hint of cayenne pepper.
Why is an egg added to the burger mixture?
The egg acts as a binder to help hold the patties together and adds moisture.
Is olive oil required for the recipe?
Olive oil is optional but recommended for adding extra moisture and flavor to the lean beef.
How many burgers does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make four equal portions or patties.
How thick should the burger patties be?
The patties should be shaped to approximately 1 inch thick.
Why should I refrigerate the patties before cooking?
Refrigeration helps the patties firm up, which is important because the added egg and oil make them very juicy.
How long should the patties chill in the refrigerator?
You should refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes.
What is the best way to mix the ingredients?
Stir the ingredients gently with your hands in a large bowl to ensure even distribution without overworking the meat.
How do I prepare the grill for these burgers?
Create a medium-hot charcoal fire or preheat a gas grill to medium-high heat.
Can I cook these burgers in a pan?
Yes, you can heat a tablespoon of canola oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
How long do the burgers take to cook?
The burgers should cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side.
What is the total cooking time for a medium-rare burger?
It takes approximately 12 minutes in total to reach medium-rare doneness.
What kind of buns should I use?
The recipe recommends using four toasted hamburger buns.
What type of salt is recommended?
Kosher salt is recommended to be added to taste.
What are some recommended toppings?
Optional toppings include lettuce, tomato, cheese, and your favorite condiments.
What role does coriander play in the recipe?
Ground coriander provides a subtle, citrusy, and floral spice note to the beef.
Does this burger have a spicy kick?
Yes, a small amount (1/8 teaspoon) of cayenne pepper provides a hint of heat.
Is this recipe suitable for a dinner party?
Yes, its gourmet profile makes it a standout dish for lunch, dinner, or outdoor gatherings.
How much thyme is needed?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of minced fresh thyme.
How much rosemary is required?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of minced fresh rosemary.
What is the purpose of ground fennel in the burger?
Ground fennel adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the other herbs.
Can I use extra virgin olive oil?
Yes, 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil are suggested as an optional addition for moisture.
How should the egg be prepared before adding?
The egg should be lightly beaten in a separate small bowl before being mixed into the meat.
Is this recipe good for summer?
Yes, it is tagged for summer and outdoor cooking, making it perfect for grilling season.
What should I avoid when mixing the meat?
You should avoid overworking the meat to ensure the burgers remain tender and juicy.