Cheddar-and-Onion Smashed Burgers

Total Time: 30 MIN Servings: Makes 4 burgers

How to make this recipe

Heat a cast-iron griddle until very hot. Layer the pickle slices on the bottom buns.

Without overworking the meat, loosely form it into 4 balls and place them on the griddle. Cook the meatballs over moderately high heat for 30 seconds. Using a sturdy large spatula, flatten each ball into a 5-inch round patty. Season the patties with salt and pepper and cook for 2 minutes, until well seared. Press a handful of sliced onions onto each patty. Using the spatula, carefully flip each burger so the onions are on the bottom. Top with the cheese and cook for 2 minutes. Cover with a roasting pan and cook just until the cheese is melted, 1 minute more. Transfer the burgers with the onions to the buns and sprinkle with umami dust. Top with the buns and serve.

Notes

Umami Dust Use a spice grinder to pulse 3 tablespoons bonito flakes, 1/2 ounce crumbled dried kombu, and 1/2 ounce dried shitake mushrooms into a powder. Keep in a sealed jar at room temperature for up to 2 months. Makes 2 1/2 ounces.
Suggested Pairing

Beer pale ale: Lake of Bays 10 Point India Pale Ale

Wine: Red – Select the Red of your choice from Prince Edward County’s Broken Stone Winery

Thanks to Adam Fleischmann for this recipe:  http://www.foodandwine.com/contributors/adam-fleischman