Kini Burger Recipe

Make the sauce

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, sweet pickle relish, apple cider vinegar, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and homogeneous. Taste and adjust hot sauce or vinegar for desired heat and tang. Refrigerate while you prepare the burgers so flavors meld (at least 15 minutes).

Form and season patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, and Worcestershire sauce over the meat. Gently fold 6–8 times to combine — avoid overworking to keep patties tender. Divide the meat into two equal portions and form into 3/4-inch thick patties slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent doming while cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot (about 4–5 minutes). Add a light brush of neutral oil to the pan. Place patties in the pan and cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip once and immediately place a slice of cheddar on each patty. Cook another 3–4 minutes for medium (adjust time +/- 1–2 minutes for desired doneness). If using a grill, cook over direct medium-high heat with the same timing.

Toast buns

While patties finish, butter the cut sides of the buns with softened butter. Place buns cut-side down on a separate skillet or on the grill for 1–2 minutes until golden and lightly crisp. Remove and set aside.

Assemble the KINI Burger

Spread about 1 tablespoon of KINI sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a lettuce leaf on the sauce (this creates a moisture barrier). Add the cheesy beef patty on top of the lettuce. Add 2 slices of tomato and a couple slices of red onion. Top with dill pickle slices and, if desired, a light drizzle of chili crisp or a dusting of smoked paprika. Spread remaining sauce on the top bun and place it on the burger.

Rest and serve

Let assembled burgers rest 1–2 minutes so juices settle. Serve immediately with extra KINI sauce on the side and optional fries or a simple salad.