It was a rainy Saturday afternoon when I stumbled upon a jar of homemade kimchi tucked away in the back of my fridge. Inspired by the flavors of Korea and the love of classic American burgers, I decided to marry the two in a way that would create a delightful explosion of flavors. The spicy, tangy crunch of kimchi paired with a juicy beef patty, all topped with a creamy spicy cilantro mayo, made for a burger experience unlike any other. This recipe is perfect for those who want to elevate their burger game and impress their friends at the next cookout!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 burger buns (preferably brioche)
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1 medium tomato, sliced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Optional: sliced avocado and pickled jalapeños for extra flavor
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped kimchi, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat. Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties, making a small indentation in the center of each for even cooking.
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a slice of cheese during the last minute of cooking to melt over the patty.
While the burgers are cooking, prepare the spicy cilantro mayo by combining the mayonnaise, sriracha, and chopped cilantro in a small bowl. Stir until well blended and set aside.
Once the burgers are cooked, toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster. Start assembling your burger by spreading a generous amount of the spicy cilantro mayo on the bottom bun. Add a layer of shredded lettuce, followed by the juicy burger patty. Top with fresh tomato slices and, if you desire, sliced avocado and pickled jalapeños for an added kick.
Finally, crown your creation with the top bun and serve immediately, perhaps with a side of sweet potato fries or a refreshing cucumber salad. Each bite is a harmonious blend of umami, spice, and freshness that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Enjoy your culinary creation, and remember: sometimes, all it takes is a little inspiration from what you have on hand to create something extraordinary!