Firewood Burger Recipe
Make Firewood Burger Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Burger Patties
Firewood Smash/Char Finish
Toppings & Cheese
Buns & Finish
Method
Burger Patties
- 1
Form and season
Place the ground beef in a bowl. Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika and Worcestershire sauce over the meat. Gently fold the seasonings into the meat with a spatula or your hands until just combined — do not overwork. Divide into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Lightly shape into loose balls and press a shallow dimple in the center of each with your thumb to promote even cooking.
- 2
Chill briefly
Set the formed patties on a plate, cover lightly, and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to help them hold shape during searing.
Firewood Smash/Char Finish
- 3
Prepare wood chips and pan
While patties chill, soak hardwood chips in hot water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat mostly dry. Preheat a heavy cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking hot (about 5–7 minutes). Add 1 tablespoon neutral oil and spread to coat the surface.
- 4
Create smoke pouch (optional stovetop)
If you want a strong firewood smoke finish on the stovetop: place drained chips in a small square of heavy-duty aluminum foil, fold into a tight packet leaving a small vent, then set the packet on an outer corner of the hot skillet for 30–60 seconds to begin producing smoke. Move to the side so it doesn't burn. (If using an outdoor grill, place chips in a smoker box or directly on coals.)
- 5
Smash-sear the burgers
Working two at a time, place two meat balls on the hot skillet and immediately press down firmly with a heavy metal spatula or a second skillet until patties are about 1/4" thick with crisped edges. Hold pressure for 10–12 seconds, then release. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to develop a deep crust. Flip once. Immediately place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the skillet with a lid or foil for 30–45 seconds to melt the cheese and allow a touch of steam and smoke to infuse.
- 6
Buns & Assembly
- 7
- 8
Assemble burgers
Spread about 1 tablespoon of burger sauce on each bottom bun. Place a butter lettuce leaf, then a tomato slice, then a cheesed patty. Top with a spoonful (about 1 tablespoon) of smoked onion jam, a few pickle slices and some red onion. Add the top bun and press gently to finish. Repeat for remaining burgers.
- 9
Serve
Serve the Firewood Burgers immediately while hot, with extra pickles and remaining burger sauce on the side.