If you’re a fan of delicious and healthier alternatives to traditional beef burgers, then Anne Burrell’s turkey burgers are sure to tantalize your taste buds. This renowned chef and Food Network personality has crafted two mouthwatering turkey burger recipes that not only pack a flavorful punch but also showcase her ingenious culinary prowess. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of Anne Burrell’s turkey burgers, exploring her unique ingredients, cooking techniques, and the secret to achieving burger perfection.
The Classic Turkey Burger
Let’s start with Anne Burrell’s classic “Turkey Burger” recipe, which appears in an episode of her show “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef.” This burger is a testament to her ability to elevate simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary.
Ingredients and Preparation
The key ingredients in this recipe include:
- Ground turkey
- Onions
- Garlic
- Soy sauce
- Sambal oelek (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Grated ginger
- Water chestnuts (for added texture)
- Fresh cilantro
Anne Burrell’s approach to preparing these burgers is straightforward yet meticulous. She starts by sautéing the onions and garlic until they release their aromatic goodness. Then, she combines the cooked aromatics with the ground turkey, soy sauce, sambal oelek (if desired), grated ginger, chopped water chestnuts, and fresh cilantro.
One of the standout techniques in this recipe is the addition of water to the burger mixture. Anne Burrell explains that this simple step helps keep the burgers moist and juicy, preventing them from drying out during the cooking process.
Cooking and Serving
Once the burger mixture is perfectly seasoned, Anne Burrell forms it into patties and cooks them on a hot pan until they’re nicely browned on both sides. If you’re feeling indulgent, she recommends topping the burgers with a slice of cheddar cheese during the final minute of cooking.
For serving, Anne Burrell suggests lightly toasting the burger buns and spreading them with a spicy mayo mixture made with sambal oelek. Then, layer the burger with your favorite toppings like tomatoes, red onions, and crisp lettuce leaves.
The Killer Turkey Burger
If you’re looking for a turkey burger that packs an extra punch of flavor, Anne Burrell’s “Killer Turkey Burger” recipe, featured on an episode of “The Kitchen,” is sure to impress.
Ingredients and Preparation
This recipe shares some similarities with the classic version but also introduces a few unique twists. In addition to ground turkey, onions, garlic, soy sauce, ginger, and water chestnuts, the “Killer Turkey Burger” incorporates:
- Can of water chestnuts (for added crunch)
- Fresh cilantro
- Sambal oelek or Asian chili paste (optional, but highly recommended for a spicy kick)
The preparation process follows a similar path to the classic recipe, with Anne Burrell sautéing the aromatics and then combining them with the remaining ingredients. However, she emphasizes the importance of using your hands to thoroughly mix and “squish” the burger mixture together, ensuring that all the flavors are evenly distributed.
Cooking and Serving
Anne Burrell’s “Killer Turkey Burger” is cooked in the same way as the classic version, with the patties seared on a hot pan until they reach the desired level of doneness. Once cooked, these burgers can be topped with a variety of tantalizing accompaniments, including:
- Spicy mayo (made with mayonnaise and sambal oelek)
- Slices of American or cheddar cheese (for optimal melting)
- Juicy beefsteak tomato slices
- Crisp red onion slices
- Fresh butter lettuce leaves
The combination of the boldly seasoned turkey patty and the flavorful toppings creates a burger experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
The Secret to Anne Burrell’s Turkey Burger Success
While the ingredients and preparation methods play a significant role in the deliciousness of Anne Burrell’s turkey burgers, there’s one secret technique that truly sets them apart: the “tester patty.”
Before forming the final burger patties, Anne Burrell recommends cooking a small tester patty from the burger mixture. This allows her to taste the seasoning and make any necessary adjustments, ensuring that the final burgers are perfectly seasoned to her liking.
By following this simple yet brilliant step, you can ensure that your turkey burgers are well-seasoned and bursting with flavor, just like Anne Burrell’s creations.
Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments
While Anne Burrell’s turkey burgers are undoubtedly the stars of the show, they pair beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your turkey burger experience:
- Crispy oven-baked fries or sweet potato fries
- Fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Grilled or roasted vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus)
- Creamy coleslaw or pickle chips (for a tangy contrast)
- Cold beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or a refreshing beer
Conclusion
Anne Burrell’s turkey burgers are a true testament to her culinary expertise and her ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you opt for the classic “Turkey Burger” or the boldly flavored “Killer Turkey Burger,” you’re in for a treat that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
So, fire up your grill or stovetop, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of Anne Burrell’s turkey burgers. With her expert guidance and your own culinary flair, you’ll be able to create burger masterpieces that will impress your friends and family, while also enjoying a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers.