Friday, June 28, 2013

Burgers 2.0 -- Smoked Gouda & Sauteed Mushrooms


I gave my tips on making the (damn near) perfect burger here.  But that was what I would consider your basic, All-American burger.  Now it's time to step it up a notch and add some great toppings.

First I sliced up some mushrooms and threw them into a skillet with butter and thyme (on the grill).


Next I covered the burgers with that Tangy Carolina BBQ sauce I described here.  I know it looks like cheddar cheese -- but it's BBQ sauce with some pepper on top.  If you have ever grilled with sauces or marinades, it can often be really messy. That's why I poured it on top of the patties first. I wanted the sauce to cook and reduce a little before flipping them.


This next picture is after I flipped them, poured a little more BBQ sauce, and then flipped them back just to finish off the sauce. I wanted it to thicken and get a little sticky. You'll notice the burgers look orange now.  I moved the mushrooms to the top rack since they were nearly done -- see how much they have reduced?


I like a toasty bun -- The Mrs. does not.


And now for the Pièce de résistance:  smoked gouda!

My wife knows how much I loved smoked cheeses.  LOVE THEM!!  So she upgraded to a nice smoked gouda when she went shopping this week. And I was so grateful, let me tell you.  Melting that wonderful smoky cheese on top of a tangy Carolina burger really elevated the luxuriousness of it all.


I put down some romaine lettuce to keep the bun from getting soggy, and to add a little crunch component.  Then slide the burger on top, and pile on your lovely buttery mushrooms.  That's it.  There is so much flavor on these you don't need to add tomato, ketchup, mustard, onion or anything from my previous burger post.


Tell me that doesn't look fantastic. I dare you!

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