The Ultimate Burger

Chef Kerry Simon of Simon Kitchen + Bar at the Hard Rock Hotel - Las Vegas, NV
Adapted by StarChefs

Yield: Serves 4

Chef Simon breaks from the traditional burger, using minced bacon, celery leaves, thyme and beer to give ground beef patties a flavor boost. He then tops the burgers with sautéed Portobello mushrooms, bacon slices and aged cheddar. To complete this upscale burger experience, serve with truffled fries!

Ingredients

Method

In a skillet, render the sliced bacon. Remove cooked bacon from pan and drain on paper towels, leaving rendered fat in the pan. Add the mushrooms, garlic and shallots to the same pan and cook about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat to cool.

In a bowl, combine the ground chuck, oil, beer, celery leaves, minced bacon, thyme and salt and pepper. Shape into patties. Grill the burgers to your desired doneness.

Cut the brioche into slices that are about the same size as the patties and toast until golden brown.

Add cheese, if using, to the burgers to melt. Top each burger with bacon, sautéed mushroom mixture and tomato slices, and place between slices of toasted brioche.

Serving Suggestion

Serve with homemade French fries garnished with a few drops of truffle oil. Try the River View Merlot with Kerry Simon's Ultimate Burger; the smoky bacon and cheddar cheese balance well with the wine's rich, dark fruits.

Estimated Prep Time: 25 minutes
Estimated Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Republished with the permission of StarChefs.com.

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