Teriyaki Burger™ Recipe

Prepare and shape patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Season with kosher salt, black pepper and garlic powder. Gently mix just until combined; avoid overworking. Divide into two equal portions and form into patties about 3/4" thick and slightly larger than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce doming while cooking.

Mix sauce

In a small saucepan or skillet, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger and minced garlic. Stir to dissolve the sugar and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.

Thicken glaze

In a small bowl whisk the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to make a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce. Continue to simmer 1–2 minutes until the glaze thickens to a glossy, pourable consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the neutral or sesame oil for shine. Keep warm; the glaze will thicken more as it cools.

Preheat grill or griddle

Preheat your grill or heavy skillet/griddle over medium-high heat. Oil the grates or skillet lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Cook patties

Place the patties on the hot grill or griddle. Cook 3–4 minutes on the first side without pressing. Flip and brush the top of each patty generously with the teriyaki glaze. Cook an additional 3–4 minutes for medium (internal temperature ~160°F/71°C for ground beef) brushing again with glaze during the last minute to build a shiny coating. If you prefer, during the last 1–2 minutes place a pineapple slice on the grill to caramelize; flip once so both sides have good char.

Finish

Remove patties and pineapple from the grill and let rest 2–3 minutes. If you like a more pronounced glaze, spoon additional warm glaze over the rested patties just before assembling.

Toast buns

Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. Toast buttered sides on the grill or skillet until golden and crisp, about 30–60 seconds.

Assemble burger

Mix the mayonnaise and sriracha (if using) and spread on the bottom bun. Layer lettuce leaf, teriyaki-glazed patty, caramelized pineapple slice, tomato slice and a few rings of red onion. Spoon a little extra glaze over the pineapple or patty if desired. Sprinkle a pinch of toasted sesame seeds over the top, cap with the bun top and serve immediately.

Serve the Teriyaki Burger with fries, a simple slaw, or steamed rice. Offer extra glaze and sriracha at the table.