Savor the Flavor of the Heartland with Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
The heartland of America has a rich culinary heritage that’s as diverse as its landscapes. From the rolling plains of Oklahoma to the bustling cities of the Midwest, this region has given birth to many beloved dishes. Among these, the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger stands out as a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of its people. This humble yet incredibly delicious burger has captured the hearts and taste buds of Oklahomans for generations.
The Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger is a true embodiment of comfort food. It’s a simple yet soul-satisfying dish that combines ground beef, onions, and a few basic seasonings to create a burger experience like no other. As you sink your teeth into this juicy masterpiece, you’ll be transported to the roadside diners and mom-and-pop joints that have been serving this iconic burger for decades.
But what makes the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger so special? It’s the perfect marriage of crispy, caramelized onions and a well-seasoned beef patty. The onions are not just a topping; they are an integral part of the burger itself. When the meat hits the griddle, it’s piled high with a mound of thinly sliced onions. As the onions cook, they meld with the beef, infusing it with their sweet, savory flavor. The result is a burger that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with umami goodness.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the history and art of making the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger. We’ll delve into the origins of this culinary gem, explore the key ingredients and techniques, and guide you through the steps to create your own mouthwatering masterpiece at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll find that making this burger is both a labor of love and a rewarding culinary adventure.
So, grab your apron and fire up the griddle, because it’s time to discover the magic of Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers. Get ready to create a burger that pays homage to the heartland and leaves you craving more with every bite.
Ingredients:
1 large onion, peeled, halved and thinly sliced
salt and pepper
1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
4-8 slices American cheese
Mayo, mustard and pickles, for serving
4 hamburger buns, toasted
How To Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers:
Combine the onion slices and 1 teaspoon of salt in a bowl and toss to combine. Transfer the onions to a colander and let sit for 30 minutes, tossing occasionally. Transfer the onions to a clean dish towel, gather the edges together and squeeze out as much liquid as you can from the onions. Do this over the sink or a large bowl since the onions will have quite a bit of liquid in them.
Divide the onions into 4 separate mounds on a rimmed baking sheet. Form the beef into 4 lightly packed balls. Place the beef balls on top of the onion mounds and flatten the beef firmly (use your palm) so the onion adheres to the beef. The patties should measure 4 inches in diameter. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper.
Melt the butter with the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Using a large spatula, transfer the patties to the skillet, onion side down. Cook for 6-8 minutes, until the onions turn a deep golden brown and begin to crisp around the edges. Flip the burgers, then increase the heat to high and cook until well browned on the second side, about 2 minutes.
Add 1 or 2 slices of cheese to each burger and allow to melt. Add mayo, mustard and pickles to the top buns, then place each burger on a bottom buns. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips:
Thinly Slice Onions: To achieve that signature caramelized onion flavor, be sure to slice the onions as thinly as possible.
Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is ideal for achieving a perfectly crispy crust on your burger patties.
Don’t Overcook the Beef: Cook the beef patties to your preferred level of doneness, but avoid overcooking to keep them juicy.
Double Up on Cheese: For an extra cheesy experience, add two slices of American cheese between the beef patties.
Nutrition Facts:
While Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are undeniably delicious, they are not the healthiest option. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition facts for one burger, excluding optional toppings:
Calories: 550-600
Fat: 35-40g
Carbohydrates: 25-30g
Protein: 30-35g
Conclusion:
Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a nostalgic culinary delight that continues to captivate taste buds with their rich history and mouthwatering flavors. While they may not be the healthiest option on the menu, indulging in one occasionally is a treat worth savoring. With the recipe and pro tips provided, you can recreate this regional classic in your own kitchen and enjoy the taste of Oklahoma wherever you are. So, fire up that skillet, slice those onions, and savor every bite of this delightful comfort food.
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