Blackberry Glazed Burger

Berry season has been upon us for quite a few weeks now. This means delicious and reasonably priced berries. Now is the time to enjoy them because their quality and price will become worse as the seasons change.

Last year, I ate at a BBQ restaurant that featured blackberry glazed buffalo ribs. The intentions were good, but the flavor combinations just didn't work out quite right. Inspired to prove that blackberries, meat, and BBQ can work together I set out to create this recipe. These burgers are delicious, and have a flavor that you wouldn't expect. The high heat of the grill does a spectacular job of caramelizing the sugar in the blackberry glaze. The addition of goat cheese and spinach elevate the flavors to a higher level while not overpowering the meat.


Ingredients: Servings: 3- 1/3 lb burger
1 lb - 80/20 ground beef
1/2 - shallot - minced
1/2 tsp - salt
1 pinch - cumin
1 tsp - Pastamore Barrel-Aged Worcestershire
3 oz - goat cheese (chevre)
3 oz - baby spinach
3 buns - toasted on the grill (kaiser rolls are preferred)

Blackberry glaze:
5 oz - Fresh blackberries
1 Tbsp - Pastamore Blackberry Balsamic Vinegar
1 Tbsp - Brown sugar
2 oz - water

Directions:
1. Turn on the grill (gas or charcoal is acceptable).
2. In a large bowl combine the meat, Pastamore Barrel-Aged Worcestershire, shallot, and all dry ingredients. Mix well.
3. Combine the blackberries, brown sugar, Pastamore Blackberry Balsamic Vinegar, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the glaze has reached a good consistency. If it is too thin cook for longer, and if it is too thick add more water. Pour the mixture into a food processor and puree (this can also be done by hand). Some do not like the texture of blackberry seeds, and if this is an issue the glaze should be strained through a fine strainer.
4. After the meat has sat for 10 minutes, separate into 3 equal sized patties. Make sure that the grill has been cleaned off, and turn the temperature to medium-high heat. Using a brush, coat one side of the burger with the glaze and then place the glazed side of the burger down. Once the burgers are on the grill, brush the glaze on the top of the burgers. Allow the burgers to cook on one side for 4-7 minutes and then turn. Once turned, apply more blackberry glaze to the meat. The goal is to only flip the burger once during the cooking process.
5. Check the temperature of the burger to see if they have reached the desired doneness. Serve safe recommends that ground beef is cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 155°F to kill pathogens. While the burgers are resting for approximately 5 minutes, toast the buns in the oven or on the grill.
6. Place the bottom of the toasted bun on the plate. On the bun, place one ounce of fresh baby spinach, and on top of the spinach place the burger. Spread one ounce of goat cheese directly on top of the burger and top with the bun. Eat and enjoy!

These burgers will not taste as fruity as one would expect, and offer a fantastic, unique taste. If you are feeling really adventurous, add a few blackberries into the meat before it is cooked.