Ultimate Smash Burger with Cuban Burger Sauce Recipe

(6 Servings)

Introduction:

Unleash the full flavor of your homemade burgers with this smash burger recipe, featuring a zesty Cuban burger sauce. The combination of savory beef with a tangy and spicy sauce creates a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress at any barbecue or family dinner.

Ingredients:

For Smashburger:

• 1.5 lbs 85/15 Lean Ground Beef (680g)
• 2 tsp Fish Sauce
• 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 12 Slices American Cheese
• 6 Burger Buns
• 1 Medium Onion, thinly sliced
• Ketchup, Mustard, or any condiments of choice

For Cuban Burger Sauce:

• ¼ cup Tomato Paste (60g)
• ¾ cup Water (180g)
• 1 tbsp Max’s Hot Sauce (15g)
• 1 tbsp Garlic Powder (15g)
• 1 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1 tsp Coriander Powder
• 1 tsp Salt

Preparation:

1. In a bowl, mix the fish sauce and Worcestershire sauce into the ground beef until well combined.
2. Shape the ground meat into 12 even balls, each approximately the size of a golf ball (about 58g each).
3. Peel and slice the onion into very thin strips.

Cuban Burger Sauce Instructions:

1. In a large bowl or blender, combine the tomato paste, Max’s Hot Sauce, ground cumin, coriander, garlic powder, and salt until smooth

Cooking Onions:

1. Heat a medium pan over medium heat. Add 1 tsp oil and allow it to heat up.
2. Add sliced onions and cook until very soft and browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Smash Burger Cooking:

1. Heat a large pan or flat grill to high.
2. Once hot, add a few meatballs and smash them as flat as possible using a spatula.
3. Season with a generous pinch of salt and pinch of pepper, then cook for about 1 minute or until browned on one side.
4. Flip the burgers, add a spoonful of Cuban sauce over each patty, and cook for another 30 seconds.
5. Place a slice of cheese on each patty and remove from heat once the cheese begins to melt.
6. Repeat the process with remaining meatballs.

Assembly:

1. Toast the burger buns lightly if desired.
2. Assemble the burgers by placing two cooked patties on each bun.
3. Top with sautéed onions and any additional sauces or toppings of your choice.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these smash burgers with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

**FAQs**

1. What if I don’t have fish sauce?

Soy sauce or additional Worcestershire sauce can be used as a substitute, though the unique umami flavor of fish sauce is recommended.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free buns and ensure that all sauces and seasonings are gluten-free.

3. Can I use different cheese?

Absolutely! While American cheese melts well, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like mild cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

4. How do I ensure my smash burgers are juicy?

Do not overwork the meat when forming balls and limit flipping to once during cooking to retain juices.