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Easy Traditional Smashed Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious and hearty meal that boasts rich flavours and satisfying textures, then look no further than the classic Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger. This iconic dish hails from the state of Oklahoma, where it has garnered a loyal following for its simplicity and flavourful profile. In this article, we’ll guide you through an easy recipe for making authentic smashed Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers, allowing you to recreate this American classic right in your own kitchen.

What is an Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger?

The Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger is a unique take on the traditional burger that features crispy, caramelised onions mixed right into the beef patty. The patties are "smashed" during cooking, creating a delightful crust while keeping the inside juicy and flavourful. The combination of the beef and the sweet, crunchy onions creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.

Ingredients

To make 4 servings of Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers, you will need:

• 500g minced beef (preferably 80/20 beef to fat ratio)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 burger buns, preferably soft and toasted
• Cheese slices (optional, but highly recommended)
• Condiments like mustard, mayonnaise, or ketchup
• Lettuce and tomato slices (optional, but adds freshness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Start by finely chopping the onion. You can choose to slice them very thinly for maximum crispness, or chop them into smaller pieces if you prefer more surface area for caramelisation. If you want to enhance the flavour, a quick sauté in a bit of oil or butter over medium heat for about 5 minutes can soften and caramelise the onions slightly. However, for that authentic texture, you can also use them raw in the burger mix.

Step 2: Mix the Beef and Onions

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced beef with the chopped onions. Season generously with salt and pepper. The key to a great burger is in the seasoning, so don’t be shy! Gently mix the ingredients together by hand until just combined—overworking the meat can lead to a tough burger.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Instead of forming round patties, take each portion and gently shape it into a ball. When it’s time to cook, the “smashing” effect will create a wider burger with a crispier exterior.

Step 4: Cook the Burgers

Heat a cast-iron skillet or a heavy frying pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the meatballs in the pan, giving them ample space. Using a spatula, press down firmly on each ball to flatten it into a patty. Searing the patty on high heat will allow the edges to caramelise beautifully.

Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes on one side. If you’re adding cheese, place a slice on each burger after flipping it. Once the burgers have developed a nice crust and the cheese is melted, they’re ready.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

While the burgers are cooking, you can toast your burger buns in a separate skillet or toaster until lightly golden brown. This will not only add to the texture but also help hold up against the juicy burger.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

Once the patties are cooked to your liking (medium-rare is ideal for juiciness), it’s time to assemble your burgers. Begin with the bottom half of the toasted bun, add the patty (with or without cheese), and layer on your preferred condiments, lettuce, and tomato. Finish with the top half of the bun.

Enjoy!

Serve your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers hot, with a side of crispy fries or onion rings for the complete experience. This recipe is not only simple but also a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for casual family dinners or backyard barbecues.

With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you can bring a taste of Oklahoma into your home. So fire up that skillet and get ready to enjoy the flavour-packed goodness of these smashed onion burgers. Bon appétit!