Smash Burger

Introduction

A Smash Burger is nothing like a regular burger — by smashing the beef ball onto a screaming hot surface, you create an intensely flavoured crust and crispy, lacy edges that are simply irresistible.

Ingredients

• 400g beef mince (20% fat)
• 4 slices American cheese
• 2 burger buns, toasted
• Mayonnaise and mustard
• Pickles and sliced onion
• Lettuce and tomato
• Salt and black pepper

Steps

1. 1. Divide mince into 4 equal loose balls — do not pack them tightly.
2. 2. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over the highest heat until smoking hot.
3. 3. Place a ball on the skillet. Immediately smash flat with a spatula using firm pressure.
4. 4. Season with salt. Cook 1.5 minutes, then flip. Immediately top with cheese.
5. 5. Toast buns. Build burger: sauce on bottom bun, pickles, double patty, onion, lettuce, tomato.

Tips

The pan must be smoking hot — that extreme heat creates the Maillard crust that makes smash burgers special. Do not use non-stick.