New York Style Smash Burger

A Brief History of the Smash Burger

The New York Style Smash Burger is a riff on the classic American hamburger, inspired by the bustling burger joints of the Big Apple. The concept of the smash burger dates back to the 1950s, where roadside diners and drive-ins would seek faster cooking times to serve hungry patrons promptly. The "smashing" technique proved efficient, allowing burgers to cook more rapidly and with greater caramelization. Today, the method has found a permanent place in America's culinary heart, celebrated for its unique texture and flavor.

Characterized by its thin, crispy edges and juicy center, the smash burger has evolved, incorporating the rich and diverse food culture of New York City. The combination of high-quality beef, artisanal buns, and bespoke toppings makes this version a gourmet experience without losing its roots.

Ingredients

• Ground Beef (80/20 blend is ideal)
• Salt
• Black Pepper
• Butter
• Burger Buns
• Cheddar Cheese slices
• Onion
• Pickle Slices
• Iceberg Lettuce, shredded
• Tomato slices
• Mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Mustard

Preparing the Ingredients

Selecting the Beef

The secret to a perfect smash burger lies in the patty's preparation. Choosing a good quality ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio is critical to achieving a juicy, flavorful burger. The higher fat content ensures that the burger remains moist and delicious after cooking.

Seasoning

Season the beef generously with salt and black pepper. The salt will help in breaking down the proteins, while the pepper adds a hint of spice that complements the beef's natural flavors.

Preparing the Vegetables

• Slice the onion thinly. This will allow it to caramelize quickly during the cooking process.
• Shred the iceberg lettuce. This adds a refreshing crispiness to the burger.
• Slice the tomatoes into even rounds, providing a juicy contrast to the crispy patty.

Cooking the Smash Burger

Heating the Pan

Preheat a cast-iron skillet or flat-top grill over medium-high heat. It's essential that the cooking surface is hot to achieve the desired caramelization and crispy edges.

Cooking the Patties

1. Roll the seasoned beef into balls, roughly 2 oz each, and place them onto the hot skillet.
2. Use a sturdy spatula to press (or “smash”) each ball into a flat, thin patty. This action creates more surface area for the Maillard reaction, intensifying the burger's flavor.
3. Cook until the edges are crispy, roughly 2-3 minutes, then flip the patty.
4. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top and let it melt while the other side cooks to perfection, about 1-2 minutes.

Toasting the Buns

Meanwhile, melt some butter in a separate pan or on the grill. Toast the burger buns until golden brown, ensuring they have a crispy texture to hold the juicy patties without becoming soggy.

Assembling the Burger

1. Spread mayonnaise on the top bun to create a creamy base for the lettuce.
2. Layer with shredded lettuce and a slice of tomato.
3. Add the cheesy patty on top.
4. Top with onion slices and pickle slices for an extra tang.
5. Finish with a squirt of ketchup and mustard on the bottom bun, then place it over the patty.

Serving Suggestions

For an authentic New York experience, serve the burger with a side of crispy fries or onion rings. Pair it with a cold craft beer or a classic soda to complement the savory richness of the meal.

Enjoying the Burger

Bite into the New York Style Smash Burger and savor the blend of crispy and juicy textures, the old-school flavor profile elevated with fresh, local ingredients that make this burger a standout dish in the world of fast food.