The Cooking Technique That Gives You Thick Pub-Style Burgers

The cooking technique that yields thick, pub-style burgers involves a few key steps to ensure the ideal texture and flavor. Start by selecting high-quality ground beef with a higher fat content, around 80/20, to ensure juiciness. Gently form the beef into thick patties, about one inch in thickness, without overworking the meat to maintain tenderness. Season each side generously with salt and pepper just before cooking to enhance the natural beef flavor. Preheat a cast-iron skillet or a grill to medium-high heat. This high temperature is crucial for creating a flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Cook the patties for about four to five minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time based on your desired level of doneness. Avoid pressing down on the patties to preserve their thickness and juiciness. For added flavor, toast the buns lightly and consider adding toppings like cheese, bacon, or caramelized onions during the last minute of cooking. Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. This method ensures that you achieve the succulent, thick burgers reminiscent of those served in classic pubs.
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Can you reverse sear a hamburger on a grill?

You can reverse sear pub-style hamburgers on the grill, making them an excellent choice for this cooking method. High-fat burgers perform exceptionally well on the grill, and the thick patties typical of pub-style burgers are ideal for outdoor cooking. While you don't need an oven to reverse sear these burgers, you can place the patties in the oven on a low setting before finishing them on the grill. Alternatively, you can use a pellet grill or a smoker to achieve the reverse sear.

Any grill or smoker that can reach at least 500 degrees Fahrenheit will suffice. Begin by preheating your grill to around 250 degrees and cook the hamburgers until they are nearly finished. Once they are close to done, take the burgers off the grill or smoker and increase the temperature to 500 degrees. Return the burgers to the grill and sear both sides to create a crispy, even crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Other cooking tips for making reverse seared hamburgers

To create the ultimate pub-style hamburgers, it's essential to know the origin of your beef. While it's easy to pick up pre-packaged ground beef from the grocery store, there are several compelling reasons to steer clear of store-bought options. Instead, seek out grass-fed, organic, and locally-sourced beef for the best results. Engaging with your local butcher about your burger-making endeavor can significantly increase your chances of obtaining high-quality ground beef.

Before cooking, allow your patties to rest, covered, for about five minutes to enhance their juiciness and flavor. Additionally, ensure that your cooking surface is hot when searing the burgers; this prevents them from drying out. If the temperature is too low and the burgers remain on the grill or in the pan for too long, they will lose moisture and turn dry and crumbly. Pair your burgers with a simple kale Caesar salad or a deconstructed watermelon gazpacho, along with a refreshing Campari (or another underrated summer cocktail) for an unforgettable burger night.

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