Tavern Burger Recipe
10 oz Burger, American Cheese, Shoestring Fries
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Ingredients
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Burger
Shoestring Fries
Method
Burger
- 1
Form and season patty
Divide the 10 oz ground beef into a single 10 oz portion (or two smaller patties if preferred). Gently form into a round patty about 3/4 to 1 inch thick, creating a slight depression in the center with your thumb to help it cook evenly. Season both sides with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper just before cooking.
- 2
Preheat griddle or pan
Heat a heavy skillet or flat-top griddle over medium-high heat until very hot (about 3–5 minutes). Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and spread to coat the surface.
- 3
Cook patty
Place the seasoned patty on the hot surface. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes to develop a crust. Flip once and cook 2–4 more minutes for medium (adjust time +/- 1–2 minutes for desired doneness). If making two thinner patties, reduce time accordingly.
- 4
- 5
- 6
Assemble
Spread optional mayonnaise (1 tbsp) and mustard (1/2 tsp) on the bun halves if using. Place the cheese-topped patty on the bottom bun, add optional pickles, shredded lettuce (1/4 cup), and tomato slices (2 slices). Top with the bun crown and serve immediately alongside shoestring fries.
Shoestring Fries
- 7
- 8
Rinse and dry
Rinse the cut potatoes under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain and pat completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Dry fries will crisp better.
- 9
Toss with cornstarch
Place the dried potato sticks in a large bowl and sprinkle 1 tablespoon cornstarch over them. Toss gently to coat evenly; this helps produce a light, crisp exterior.
- 10
Heat oil and blanch (optional two-stage method)
Pour vegetable oil into a heavy pot or deep fryer and heat to 325°F (163°C). Working in small batches, blanch the fries for 2–3 minutes until they are softened but not browned. Remove with a spider or slotted spoon and drain on a rack or paper towels.
- 11
Final fry
Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the blanched fries in small batches for 1–2 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding. Remove to a paper towel-lined tray to drain.
- 12
Season and serve
Immediately sprinkle the hot fries with kosher salt to taste. Serve hot alongside the Tavern Burger.