master-cooks | How Ernest Hemingway Enjoyed His Burgers

Ernest Hemingway, the renowned author and avid adventurer, had a particular fondness for crafting the perfect hamburger. His approach to making burgers was as meticulous and passionate as his writing. Hemingway believed in using high-quality ingredients, starting with freshly ground beef, preferably from a mix of sirloin and brisket to achieve the right balance of flavor and juiciness. He seasoned the meat simply with salt and pepper, allowing the natural taste of the beef to shine through. Hemingway preferred his burgers cooked rare to medium-rare, ensuring they remained succulent and full of flavor. For Hemingway, the bun was also an important element, opting for a soft yet sturdy bun that could hold the burger without falling apart. He often toasted the bun slightly to add a hint of crispiness. Hemingway’s choice of toppings was straightforward and classic, including fresh lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and sweet onions for added crunch and flavor. He sometimes added a slice of cheese, favoring Swiss or cheddar. Condiments were used sparingly, typically limited to a touch of mustard or mayonnaise. For Hemingway, the essence of a good burger lay in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients, reflecting his appreciation for straightforward, honest flavors.

The unusual but sensible ingredients for Hemingway's Hamburger

Pairing wine with eggs can be challenging, but it becomes easier when you're using them to prepare Hemingway's burger patties. Hemingway himself included wine and eggs in his ground beef mixture, along with green onions, capers, India relish, and various spices.

Some of these ingredients might surprise those attempting to recreate Hemingway's burger. India relish is a fragrant and spicy condiment made from fruits, vegetables, and spices, primarily featuring bell peppers, sweet onions, and wine vinegar. While it’s not commonly found in modern grocery stores, it can be made at home. Capers, known for their salty, briny flavor, are more familiar but are not typically associated with burgers. One of the spices in Hemingway's recipe, "Mei Yen," has been discontinued by Spice Islands; it consists of a blend of 2 parts MSG, 9 parts salt, and 9 parts sugar.

Hemingway's old-world hamburger may seem unusual to Americans in 2024, but his ingredient choices are rooted in culinary logic. He was an enthusiastic traveler with a deep appreciation for Spanish culture and cuisine, shaped by his experiences during significant historical events in Spain and his time in Cuba. His travels expanded his understanding of food, life, and literature, and who knows what new culinary creations we might discover if we adopt a similar open-minded approach.

How Ernest Hemingway Enjoyed His Burgers

The unusual but sensible ingredients for Hemingway's Hamburger

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