Making a good burger is an art form. There are so many variations now, and so many different meats to use to make burgers, we could spend days talking about them. Well let’s stop talking and start grilling. Here is a unique Elvis-style burger that tasted better than I ever expected it to.
Peanut Butter and Banana Burger
I’ve come to learn that peanut butter and bananas really do go well together. And while you might think putting them on a burger is weird, think again. The flavors complement each other to create something unique and – if I do say – pretty awesome.
1 pound ground beef
4 good hamburger buns, sliced
Kosher salt
2 Tbsp. chopped cilantro
1/4 cup finely diced pineapple
1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
2 bananas
DIRECTIONS
Slice bananas in half length-wise and spray or brush with vegetable or canola oil. Grill over medium high heat for 1 to 2 minutes per side. Cut into 2 to 3-inch slices. Combine beef with cilantro and pineapple, and form into 4 patties. Sprinkle with salt, and grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Toast buns on grill for 30 seconds or so, if desired. To assemble, spread 1 Tbsp. peanut butter on both sides (1/2 Tbsp. per side) of buns. Lay banana slices on bottom half and place burger on top of bananas, and bun top over that. Hide the ketchup, because, well, it doesn’t really mix with peanut butter. Serves 4.
Beer Greens
Does the thought of making greens – like collard greens, turnip greens, kale or chard – scare you? It scared me too, but I learned how to do it and to flavor them the way a man should flavor his green vegetables – with beer. This recipe is a good side to any burger or chicken.
1 bunch greens, washed and coarsely chopped (kale works best for this recipe)
1 medium onion, diced
1 to 2 garlic cloves, minced
2 slices deli ham, diced (about 1/3 cup)
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 12 oz. bottle of beer
Hot sauce to taste
Kosher salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS
Heat olive oil in large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. When you feel the heat when you place your hand about three inches from the pan, add onion and garlic. Sautee until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add ham and continue cooking for about 1 minute. Add greens and stir until they cook down, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add salt and pepper, then beer. Lower heat to medium-low, and cover. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed. Add hot sauce to taste, and more salt and pepper if necessary, and serve. Serves 4.
