Cherry Burgers

Cherry Burgers (Adapted from Eating Well)

For the cherry ketchup

10 ounces frozen pitted cherries
1/2 cup dried cherries
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/3 cup water
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/8 teaspoon allspice
1/8 teaspoon cardamom
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the burgers

1/2 small sweet onion, cut into thin rounds
12 ounces ground sirloin
1/2 cup dried cherries, finely chopped
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
4 English muffins, split and toasted
4 lettuce leaves

To make the ketchup

In a large saucepan, combine frozen cherries, dried cherries, vinegar, water, garlic, sugar, ginger, allspice, cardamom, cinnamon and cayenne. Bring to a simmer - reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Scoop the mixture into a food processor or blender and process until smooth. This makes a generous amount and you will have plenty leftover.

To make the burgers

In a medium bowl, add sliced onions and cover with icy water - set aside.

Preheat grill

In a large bowl, combined beef, cherries, breadcrumbs, garlic, vinegar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce salt and pepper. Evenly divide the mixture into 4 portions and pat into 1/2" thick patties. Use your thumb to make a slight indent in the center of each patty to help them evenly cook through.

Drain the onions. Assemble the burgers by topping the muffins with the burgers, onion slices, lettuce and ketchup.

Makes 4 servings.

Just found the recipe? Click here to see where we talked about it!