You can listen to Fox News articles now! Adding extra flavor by soaking your burger bun in the patty’s leftover grease seems logical, but one chef advises against it. According to Michael Hawk, executive chef at the Fontainebleau in Miami Beach, Florida, toasting the bun in butter creates a better result. This method not only adds flavor but also texture by forming a crust on the bun.
To achieve this, use a sauté pan on medium heat with whole, unsalted butter. Melt the butter, place the bun cut-side down, and apply slight pressure for better contact. Toast for two to three minutes until golden brown.
Many people soak their burger buns in patty juices, but toasting them in butter is recommended.
Hawk emphasizes the importance of timing when toasting buns. Start toasting as burgers begin to finish. Allow burgers a resting period after cooking to avoid soaking the bun in juices. Three or four minutes is adequate for resting the burger while the buns get ready.
Using a grill often results in burnt buns due to high heat, Hawk explained. Gentle heat is preferable for toasting buns. If using a grill, place buns on cooler outer edges.
Hawk favors brioche or potato buns for their subtle flavor, allowing the meat’s essence to dominate. However, any bun choice is suitable based on personal preference.
Additionally, Hawk shared various tips for crafting an ideal burger. Regarding patty formation, consistency in shape and size ensures even cooking. Utilize a digital thermometer for precise results. Remove burgers from heat 5 degrees shy of the target temperature, as they continue cooking while resting.
Smash burgers are trendy, but Hawk advises pressing the patty only while raw. This approach maintains moisture and allows a crust to form.
Pressing the burger during cooking leads to a drier result and inhibits crust development, Hawk stated.
A common at-home mistake is patty pressing while cooking, Hawk noted. He also highlighted the importance of tempering the meat, despite bacterial concerns. Let the burger approach room temperature slightly, around 10 to 15 degrees, reducing grill time with intense heat and helping to retain moisture.
Teresa Mull, a freelance writer from Fox News Digital’s Lifestyle team, contributed to this report.