The burger scene has EXPLODED in Cairo, with endless options for the yummy night out. But what about those days when you feel like whipping up the perfect burger at home? Butcher’s Burger has divulged the 5 steps to the perfect meaty treat.
Step 1: The Beef
It all starts with the selection of beef cuts. You need juiciness, texture, and of course, flavor.
DO NOT use prepared minced beef, ask your butcher to prepare and grind your beef cuts.
A 50% sirloin, 50% chuck would be an excellent ratio for a succulent and tasty beef burger.
Ask the butcher not to trim the natural fats of the selected cuts; an average of 20% fat content is needed for a juicy burger. Don’t over-grind it, you need to maintain a nice texture and bite.
Step 2: Shaping the Perfect Patty
Divide your beef into 150 gm portions; shape each portion into a ball. DO NOT over work the beef, it needs minimum handling, otherwise it will become dense and chewy. Using the tip of your fingers shape the balls into round patties, about 2 cm thick, and DO NOT over press it. Arrange your burgers on a flat plate, cover with cling film, and let it rest for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
Step 3: Seasoning the Patty
Since the quality of your beef is very good, you do not need to over-season the patties. Just sprinkle with some salt and pepper.
Step 4: Cooking the Burger
Use a non-stick pan or preferably an iron skillet, add a little olive oil and wait till the oil starts to be smoking hot. You need the pan to be hot to sear the burger surface, and maintain the burger juices inside the patty.
Add the burgers, one at a time, and DO NOT over-crowd your pan, you need to leave a 2-3 cm space between each patty. Then just leave it alone, burgers should be flipped only once on each side. When the burgers are cooked through (depending on how you like them cooked), arrange on a pre-warmed plate, cover with foil, and let them rest for at least 2 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble to Perfection
Here is where you add your own creativity and taste. First you need to select good fresh burger buns, from your favorite bakery. We recommend that you brush each side of the bun with butter, and toast it in a pan until golden brown.
Now create your own burger according to your taste. The most common ingredients include sauces, add-ons and fresh vegetables.
Sauce: Mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, or chili sauce
Add-ons: Cheese, mushrooms, fried egg, or beef bacon
Fresh vegetables: Tomatoes, lettuce, onions, or arugula
Serve with fries and enjoy!
