Bajan Burger Recipe

Mix and Form Patties

In a large bowl combine 1 lb ground beef, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce and 1 tsp minced garlic. Gently mix just until combined — avoid overworking. Divide into two equal portions and form into patties about 3/4 inch thick, slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent excessive bulging while cooking.

Cook Patties

Heat a heavy skillet or grill to medium-high. If using a skillet, add a light brush of oil. Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). In the last minute of cooking, brush each patty generously with the honey habanero BBQ sauce (see sauce directions) and top with a slice of cheddar cheese. Cover pan or close grill lid for 30–60 seconds to melt cheese. Remove patties and let rest for 2 minutes.

Prepare and Cook Sauce

Wearing gloves, remove stem and seeds from 1 habanero (leave seeds if you want more heat). Finely mince the habanero. In a small saucepan over medium heat combine the minced habanero, 3 tbsp honey, 1/2 cup ketchup, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp salt and 2 tbsp water. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and simmer 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and flavors meld. Taste (careful — hot) and adjust sweetness or acidity with more honey or vinegar if needed. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using. If you prefer a smooth sauce, puree briefly with an immersion blender or in a countertop blender and then return to pan to reheat gently.

Cook Bacon

While patties cook (or beforehand), cook 4 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6–8 minutes, turning as needed. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Prep Vegetables

Slice tomato into 2–4 thin slices (from 1/2 tomato) and thinly slice 1/4 red onion into rings. Rinse and dry 2 lettuce leaves.

Toast Buns

Spread 1 tbsp butter across the cut faces of the 2 burger buns. Toast buttered sides in a skillet over medium heat until golden, about 1–2 minutes.

Assemble Burgers

Spread 1 tbsp mayonnaise on the bottom bun. Place lettuce leaf on the mayo, then the cheesed patty. Drizzle 1–2 tbsp of the honey habanero BBQ sauce over the patty. Add two slices of bacon per burger, a slice or two of tomato, and a few red onion rings. Optionally squeeze a little lime (about 1/2 lime divided) over the toppings for brightness. Spread remaining mayonnaise on the top bun and place on the burger. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side.

Leftover sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Adjust heat next time by using less habanero or removing seeds. For a Bajan touch, serve with a side of fried plantains or pepper sauce.