Mongolian Beef Burgers Recipe
Mongolian Beef Burgers are a fusion delight that combines the rich, savory flavors of Mongolian beef with the classic appeal of an American burger.
This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: juicy, flavorful beef patties infused with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, topped with caramelized onions and a sweet and tangy hoisin glaze.
The result is a burger that is not only delicious but also offers a unique twist on traditional flavors. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, these burgers are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Beef Patties:
Ground Beef: 1 1/2 pounds of 80% lean ground beef. The slight fat content ensures a juicy and flavorful patty.
Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons for that umami depth.
Fresh Ginger: 1 tablespoon finely grated, providing a zesty kick.
Garlic: 3 cloves minced, enhancing the savory profile.
Green Onions: 1/4 cup finely chopped, adding a mild onion flavor and some freshness.
Sesame Oil: 2 teaspoons, giving a nutty, aromatic touch.
Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon, to help bind the mixture and retain moisture.
Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, for a subtle heat.
For the Hoisin Glaze:
Hoisin Sauce: 1/4 cup, delivering a sweet and savory balance.
Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon, to enhance the sauce’s depth.
Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon, providing acidity to cut through the richness.
Brown Sugar: 2 teaspoons, adding a caramelized sweetness.
Sriracha: 1 teaspoon (optional), for a bit of heat.
For the Caramelized Onions:
Yellow Onions: 2 large, thinly sliced.
Butter: 2 tablespoons, for richness.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, to prevent burning.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, to help draw out the moisture.
For the Assembly:
Burger Buns: 4 large, toasted.
Lettuce: 4 large leaves, for crunch and freshness.
Tomato: 1 large, sliced, for juiciness and color.
Pickled Jalapenos: 1/4 cup, for an optional spicy kick.
Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup, optional, for a creamy texture.
Instructions
Preparing the Beef Patties:
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, sesame oil, cornstarch, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
Chill Patties: Place the patties on a plate and cover with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Making the Hoisin Glaze:
Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and sriracha (if using) until smooth. Set aside.
Caramelizing the Onions:
Heat Pan: In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.
Cook Onions: Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Reduce the heat if the onions start to brown too quickly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cooking the Patties:
Preheat Grill or Pan: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Alternatively, you can use a grill pan or a large skillet on the stove.
Cook Patties: Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness. Brush each patty with the hoisin glaze during the last minute of cooking on each side.
Rest Patties: Remove the patties from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes while you prepare the buns and toppings.
Assembling the Burgers:
Toast Buns: Toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until lightly browned.
Spread Mayonnaise: If using, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.
Layer Ingredients: Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by a slice of tomato. Add the beef patty on top, then spoon some caramelized onions over the patty. Top with pickled jalapenos if you like a bit of heat.
Top Bun: Place the top half of the bun over the assembled burger.
Taste and Serving
The Mongolian Beef Burger is a flavor explosion in every bite. The beef patty is juicy and packed with the umami flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. The caramelized onions add a sweet, mellow note that complements the savory beef.
The hoisin glaze gives a sweet and tangy finish, making each bite irresistibly good. The fresh lettuce and tomato provide a refreshing contrast, while the pickled jalapenos offer a spicy kick for those who like it hot.
Serve these burgers with your favorite sides—think crispy fries, a tangy coleslaw, or a refreshing cucumber salad. A cold beer or a chilled glass of iced tea pairs perfectly with the rich, savory flavors of the Mongolian Beef Burger. Enjoy this unique and delicious fusion dish with family and friends for a memorable meal!