Juicy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, pork burgers are a delicious alternative to beef and are sure to satisfy game-day food cravings. When it comes to burgers, I normally stick to beef patties, but this alternative burger option is just as delicious and often overlooked. Plus, it’s also lower in saturated fat than beef, making these grilled pork burgers a great alternative to the classic beef burger. It is a tender protein with a slightly sweet flavor—perfect for crafting a game-day food menu. From classic to creative, these grilled pork burgers are sure to cure cravings, they are a new favorite in my house. 🍔
3 Pork Burger Variations
Asian Fusion: Incorporate flavors from the East by adding ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to your pork burger mix. Top with slaw and a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
Mediterranean Must-try: Mix in Mediterranean spices like oregano and ground cumin, then serve your pork burger with tzatziki sauce, cucumber, and feta cheese.
Tex-Mex Taster: Create a Tex-Mex twist by seasoning your pork burger with chili powder and cayenne pepper. Top it with guacamole, salsa, and a slice of pepper jack cheese.
Health Benefits of (Pork) Burgers
Listen, I know you’re probably thinking.. “health benefits of a BURGER?” While I am a holistic nutritionist, I believe everything in moderation + an abundance mindset is more important than a restricted diet (this excludes dietary allergies of course). Pork burgers are delicious and they also offer some health benefits. Pork is a good source of protein, providing essential amino acids that are vital for muscle growth and repair. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, including thiamine, niacin, and selenium. Plus, pork is relatively lean when you choose the right cuts, making it a healthier option compared to fatty beef cuts.
Grilled Pork Burger Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (adjust for desired texture)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Burger buns
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced (for caramelized onions)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for caramelized onions)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (for caramelized onions)
Step-by-step Instructions
Preparing the Caramelized Onions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté for about 10 minutes until they start to become translucent.
3. Sprinkle brown sugar over the onions and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Remove the caramelized onions from the heat and set them aside.
Making the Pork Burgers:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into burger patties.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the pork burgers for approximately 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Toast the burger buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes until they are lightly browned.
6. Assemble your pork burgers by placing the grilled patties on the toasted buns and topping them with the caramelized onions.
5 Pairings for The Pork Burger
The ideal side items for a pork burger: 🍟🥗🌽
Classic Fries: Golden and crispy, they’re a timeless choice. 🍟
Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier alternative with a touch of sweetness.
Grilled Vegetables: For a lighter option, grill some colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus. 🌽
Coleslaw: Creamy and refreshing, coleslaw adds a delightful crunch.
Green Salad: A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of your pork burger. 🥗
Conclusion
Pork burgers are a delicious departure from the classic beef patty, offering a unique blend of flavors and endless possibilities for culinary experimentation. Whether you prefer a traditional burger or something more adventurous like the Asian-inspired option, pork burgers are a great game-day food sure to satisfy a crowd. Next time you’re craving a burger, consider giving pork a try!
xxx
Allie M
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