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Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a beloved regional specialty hailing from the Sooner State, particularly from the small town of El Reno. This simple yet satisfying dish emerged during the Great Depression, when onions were cheaper than meat. To stretch the beef further, savvy cooks would incorporate thinly sliced onions into their burger patties. The onions caramelize as they cook, creating a delectable combination of sweet and savory flavors that meld together with the juicy beef. Not just a clever way to economize, these burgers have stayed popular over time due to their irresistible taste and have become a staple in Oklahoma’s culinary scene.
When serving Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers, you want to complement the rich, savory flavors without overshadowing the star of the show. Classic American sides like crispy fries or tater tots are ideal pairings, providing a pleasing textural contrast. For a healthier option, a simple coleslaw or a fresh green salad with a zesty dressing can balance the meal. You might also serve it with dill pickles or pickled okra to add a bit of tang and crunch. Whether you’re aiming for a traditional diner experience or a lighter backyard cookout, these accompaniments will round out your meal nicely.
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Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (preferably 85/15 blend for juiciness)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 4 slices of American cheese (optional)
– 4 hamburger buns, preferably potato rolls
– Butter, for toasting buns
– Condiments of your choice (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, etc.)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 4 slices of American cheese (optional)
– 4 hamburger buns, preferably potato rolls
– Butter, for toasting buns
– Condiments of your choice (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your griddle or a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and form them into loose balls. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the balls of beef onto the hot griddle, and on top of each, pile a generous handful of thinly sliced onions.
4. Using a sturdy spatula, smash the burgers into flat patties, pressing the onions into the ground beef. This ensures that they will stick to the beef and caramelize as the burgers cook.
5. Allow the burger patties to cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes or until the edges underneath are dark brown and crispy.
6. Flip the burger patties carefully, ensuring the onion layer remains intact. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty immediately after flipping.
7. While the second side cooks, butter the hamburger buns and place them cut-side down on the griddle to toast lightly.
8. Once the burgers are cooked to your desired doneness and the cheese is melted—usually after about 4 minutes—remove them from the griddle.
9. Assemble the burgers by placing each patty on a toasted bun. Add your desired condiments, cap with the top bun, and serve hot with your chosen sides.
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