Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Chimichurri-Stuffed Argentine Burgers?
They are juicy beef burgers stuffed with a vibrant Argentine herb sauce made of cilantro, parsley, and toasted cumin, then grilled to perfection.
How do I toast the ground cumin for this recipe?
Toast the cumin in a small skillet over low heat for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant.
What ingredients are in the chimichurri sauce?
The sauce consists of toasted cumin, fresh cilantro, fresh Italian parsley, white wine vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, sea salt, and canola oil.
How do I blend the chimichurri ingredients?
Combine the herbs, vinegar, spices, and salt in a blender on low speed, gradually pouring in the canola oil until the mixture is smooth.
What type of beef is recommended for these burgers?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and texture.
How do I season the burger meat?
Mix the lean ground beef with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of ground red pepper until evenly combined.
How many patties should I form from the beef mixture?
Divide the meat into 12 equal portions to create 12 individual patties, each about 3-1/2 inches in diameter.
How do I stuff the burgers with the chimichurri sauce?
Spoon 1 tablespoon of sauce into the center of 6 patties, then place the remaining 6 patties on top and seal the edges securely.
What is the best way to prevent the burgers from sticking to the grill?
Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grill rack before placing the patties down.
How long should I grill the stuffed burgers?
Cook the burgers for 18 to 22 minutes total, flipping them once halfway through the cooking process.
What is the safe internal temperature for these burgers?
Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the beef reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I use the chimichurri sauce on the hamburger buns?
Yes, brush the cut sides of the toasted hamburger buns with some of the remaining sauce to enhance the flavor.
What toppings are recommended for serving?
The burgers are best served topped with additional chimichurri sauce, sliced fresh tomatoes, and sliced onions.
How many calories are in a serving of these burgers?
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
Each burger contains 25 grams of fat.
How much protein is in one burger?
These burgers are high in protein, providing 28 grams per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
Each burger contains 35 grams of carbohydrates.
Can I substitute the cilantro or parsley?
While cilantro and Italian parsley are traditional for chimichurri, you can adjust the ratio or substitute one if you have a strong preference.
Is white wine vinegar necessary for the sauce?
White wine vinegar provides a specific acidity that complements the herbs, though red wine vinegar can be used as a substitute.
How many burgers does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 6 large stuffed burgers.
What kind of salt should I use for the sauce?
Sea salt or coarse salt is recommended to bring out the best flavor in the herb mixture.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, but you may need to adjust cooking times and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for poultry.
How do I ensure the chimichurri doesn't leak out during grilling?
The key is to pinch and seal the edges of the two patties very securely to fully encase the sauce inside the meat.
Should the hamburger buns be toasted?
Yes, the recipe suggests using split and toasted hamburger buns for the best texture and flavor.
Does the recipe require any specific oil?
Canola oil is used for its neutral flavor, allowing the herbs and cumin to stand out.
What makes these burgers 'Argentine'?
They are inspired by Argentine barbecue (asado) traditions, specifically the use of chimichurri sauce and grilled beef.
Is the chimichurri sauce spicy?
It has a mild kick from the crushed red pepper flakes and ground red pepper, which can be adjusted to your heat preference.
Can I make the chimichurri sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the burgers.
How do I measure the cilantro and parsley?
Measure 1 cup of each leaf, lightly packed, to ensure you have the correct volume for the sauce.
What preparation is needed for the tomatoes and onions?
Simply slice the tomatoes and onions to your desired thickness to use as fresh toppings for the finished burgers.